GMR Rugby Premier League: Bengaluru Bravehearts' Mohit Khatri Is Raising The Bar

Mohit Khatri is one of India's best rugby players and the most expensive player in the GMR Rugby Premier League. The Haryana man comes from a family of four rugby-playing brothers motivating and challenging each other to be the best.

The Bengaluru Bravehearts player spoke exclusively to The Free Press Journal in a free-wheeling chat. Excerpts..

1) How excited are you with the inaugural season of the GMR Rugby Premier League?

A: I'm extremely excited for the inaugural GMR Rugby Premier League and I feel it's a huge step for Indian rugby and being part of this history-making journey is an honour for me. I see it as a platform to showcase our skills and contribute to growing the sport in our country.

2) You emerged as the most expensive player in the auction. What were your thoughts when the Bengaluru Bravehearts bid for you successfully?..

A: It was an overwhelming and emotional moment for me. To become the most expensive player bought by Bengaluru Bravehearts made me feel truly valued. I'm very thankful to the franchise in believing in me. I see this as a responsibility to perform at my best and justify their trust.

3) You come from a family which has a rugby background. Your elder brother Vikas Khatri is a former India rugby captain. Tell us a bit about your journey and your brother Vikas's influence.

A: Coming from a rugby family, the sport has always been a part of my life. My eldest brother Vikas Khatri has not just been a former India rugby captain, he was my biggest role model and inspiration as well. Watching him play for the Indian team with grit and discipline lit the fire in me from my young age. I still remember going with him to the training sessions, learning new skills and new tricks and wanting to wear the Indian jersey one day. That dream turned into hard work and I feel very proud to be following in his footsteps. His guidance after tough moments like injuries has been invaluable. He has taught me to be hungry and grounded and always respect the game and the rules and regulations. Whatever I have achieved so far, a big part of the credit goes to him and my coach Kuldeep Singh Bisht as well and my family for the constant support.

4) How do you feel about the performance of your younger brothers Prince and Neeraj?..

A: I feel incredibly proud seeing my brothers perform in the league. We all have come from the same background, trained together and pushed each other. To see them compete at this level is truly special whether its a strong tackle or a crucial try or just work rate on the field, it makes me feel like our family's love for rugby is paying off. Unfortunately, my brother Prince had an injury and had to step out of the tournament. I know he will recover and come back stronger in the next season.

5) With regard to your own game, you are now rubbing shoulders with some of the best rugby players and coaches in the world. What have the learnings been for you so far?..

A: It's been an incredible learning curve, playing alongside and under the guidance of some of the best coaches in the world. It has opened my eyes to the finer details of the game like decision making under pressure, game intelligence or maintaining professionalism on the field. I'm learning something new everyday and it is making me a better player and team-mate.

6) What will Rugby Premier League do for Indian rugby in your opinion and grassroots development?..

A: For grassroots development, RPL is planting seeds of hope. Even kids from small towns and villages will now have real models to look upto and when they see Indian players on national television playing in professional leagues, it will inspire them to pick up the sport. And with the structure, support system and talent scouting RPL will bring more players. Playing alongside the best domestic and international talent will raise the overall standard of Indian rugby. It's about building a culture of excellence and belief that Indian rugby can reach the highest levels.

7) Who's your all-time favourite rugby player from any country?..

A: My all-time favourite rugby player is Pol Pla from Spain. His consistency and ability to perform under pressure are like unmatched. The way he led his national squad and maintained such high standards is something I deeply admire and try to learn from him as a player myself.

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