Cricket has such a stranglehold on India’s sporting culture, other sports can struggle to grab the public’s attention.
It takes something special to catch their eye.
So, when players stepped onto the pitch for the inaugural GMR Rugby Premier League (RPL) in Mumbai in June, the crowd was stunned to see accomplished Olympians such as Australia’s Maurice Longbottom in action.
Even fewer expected the diminutive Australian to leave such an indelible mark on Indian rugby, on and off the field.
Longbottom, along with fellow Aussies Henry Hutchison and James Turner, weren’t just marquee players but cultural ambassadors in every sense.
Playing for the Kalinga Black Tigers, Longbottom, who had never visited India before, was drawn not just by the promise of rugby, but by the opportunity to help shape the sport in a country brimming with untapped potential.
“As a kid, I looked up to players. Now I find myself in a position to help younger kids chase their rugby dreams,” he said. “Being that kind of role model means a lot.”
Playing in sweltering evening temperatures and amid the unfamiliar buzz of Indian fans, Longbottom embraced every challenge on and off the field — from leading communication on the field to trying spicy street food.
“The people have been beautiful — so warm and welcoming,” he said. “But the heat? Not a fan!”
Hutchison, who played for the Mumbai Dreamers, shared a similar sentiment. “India really grew on me. No matter where you are, there’s always someone nearby — it’s a country where you’re never truly alone,” he said.
He also praised the skill level of Indian players, expressing genuine surprise at the talent on display.
“Each of the six teams had impressive Indian players who developed their game with limited resources. That says a lot about their commitment and the sport’s future here.”
Sport, culture and diplomacy
The RPL wasn’t just about line breaks and tries — it was a masterclass in sport as soft diplomacy.
Whether it was Longbottom wearing a traditional kurta for the first time and trying local cuisines, or Hutchison exploring Jaipur and Udaipur post-tournament, these moments of cultural immersion turned visiting athletes into unexpected icons.
“These moments cannot be underestimated or undervalued,” said Rahul Bose, actor, former India rugby player, President of Rugby India and architect of the RPL.
“Sport and art are the most organic ways to create deep cultural ties.”
Mr Bose, whose vision for the league was rooted in fostering global friendships, sees RPL as more than just a tournament — it’s a bridge.
“This is the first step. These exchanges bring trust, affection, and care. They can redefine how nations view each other through the lens of sport.”
India’s untapped potential
For Hutchison, the experience reinforced a deeper belief: India is rugby’s next big frontier.
“If we nurture the grassroots right, rugby could become part of India’s sporting identity,” he said. “Kids need to grow up with a rugby ball in hand, not just a cricket bat.”
The RPL format challenged even seasoned international players. Compressed into a fortnight, the tournament demanded athletes not just perform but mentor.
Players like Hutchison became de facto player-coaches, helping local talent develop in real time.
“It was a balancing act, helping others grow while staying sharp ourselves,” Hutchison said.
“But the Indian players were hungry to learn. That made it a joy.”
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Challenging misconceptions
While the RPL spotlighted the calibre of Indian players to the world, it also challenged long-standing misconceptions within India.
“The perception in India is that rugby is for elite circles,” Bose noted. “In reality, it’s played by tens of thousands from some of the poorest districts.”
The visible camaraderie between Australian Olympians and Indian players sent a powerful message — that rugby belongs to everyone, everywhere.
“We’re in India helping grow a game we love,” said Longbottom. “It’s electrifying. And when it clicks, it’s magic.”
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It was certainly magic for the Chennai Bulls, who were crowned champions after beating Delhi Redz in the final.
But as the dust settles on the inaugural season, the legacy of the RPL is only just beginning.
Australian players have already pledged to spread the word back home — encouraging others to explore this new frontier.
“Seeing is believing,” said Mr Bose. “The players experienced the hospitality, the passion, the energy. That will echo far beyond.”
For Longbottom, the highlight wasn’t a try or a tackle, it was the faces in the stands.
“I always take time after the match to meet the fans and thank them. We wouldn’t be doing this without them.”