SRINAGAR
The crisp air of Srinagar’s historic Polo Ground played host to more than just a game. For Sheikh Rashid, captain of the Andhra Pradesh touch rugby team, the National Touch Rugby Championship is a moment of immense personal and professional pride.
Leading his squad during his very first visit to the valley, the 26-year-old athlete expressed his admiration for the region and the high level of play. “Coming to Kashmir for the national stage makes me feel proud,” Rashid shared. He praised the excellent management of the event, noting that the fierce competition is exactly what his team needs to grow. While he admitted his side has a few weaknesses to fix, their eyes remain firmly on the trophy.
Beyond the pitch, the natural beauty of the host state left a lasting impression on the visiting captain. After trips to Gulmarg and Sonamarg, Rashid joked that the scenery was so breathtaking he even considered settling down there in the future.
The tournament highlights the rapid growth of rugby across India. This momentum is set to continue into the summer, as Rugby India recently announced the second season of the Rugby Premier League. Scheduled for June in Hyderabad, the league will feature six franchises competing in the fast-paced “7s” format. For players like Rashid, these platforms are vital steps toward making India a global contender in the sport, proving that rugby’s footprint is expanding from the beaches of Andhra to the mountains of Kashmir.
