Indian Heritage Rugby League NSW has taken its first step towards creating a pathway for people of Indian heritage to connect through Rugby League, with more than 50 people attending the initiative’s inaugural induction meeting.
Held at the Parramatta Eels Centre of Excellence (the James Hardie Centre), the meeting brought together members of the Indian and Rugby League community to share a vision of increasing participation, strengthening cultural connections, and creating opportunities for people of Indian heritage across New South Wales.
Backed by NSWRL and supported by emerging elite players, the initiative aims to provide a platform for the Indian community to get involved in the game at any capacity.
Among those supporting the initiative are rising Rugby League prodigies Onitoni and Ashton Large, who are both of Indian heritage and represented the GIO NSW Under 19s in the 2026 State of Origin Under 19s match at North Sydney Oval last month.
“We are proud to be of Indian heritage,” Ashton Large said.
“We love playing Rugby League and encourage anybody interested to sign up today and be part of the new Indian Heritage Rugby League program.”
NSWRL Head of Community Rugby League Peter Clarke said the initiative reflects the organisation’s commitment to ensuring Rugby League is the game for all.
"The interest has been strong, with a number of players, volunteers and families excited about the prospect of an Indian Heritage Rugby League team,” Clarke said.
"We are proud to work alongside the Indian community and look forward to the continued growth of Indian representation and participation across all levels of our game.”
Heritage Rugby League NSW Chair Javed Hamidi echoed Clarke's endorsement.
“We look forward to learning more about Indian culture through Rugby League and celebrating the diversity that enriches our game,” Hamidi said.
"We have 25 diaspora groups represented in Heritage Rugby League, this provides a unique platform for diaspora communities to celebrate their cultural heritage, strengthen community connections, and share their traditions with the wider Rugby League family.”
With strong support already established following the inaugural meeting, Indian Heritage Rugby League NSW will now begin forming a working group to guide the next phase of the initiative, with a focus on creating a strong community, growing pathways and opportunities, culture, belonging, and growing the game of Rugby League as a whole.
Interested persons send expression of interest including WWC to: indianheritagerugbyleague@outlook.com
