How is Sambit Pradhan of Hyderabad Heroes Making a Comeback in the Rugby Premier League?

Mumbai, June 24 (NationPress) The Hyderabad Heroes are currently dominating the Rugby Premier League (RPL), holding the top position on the leaderboard with six victories out of seven matches, and they are the first team to secure a spot in the playoffs.

Their success is attributed not only to the stellar performances of marquee players such as Joji Nasova, Kevin Wekesa, and Terio Tamani, but also to the contributions from Indian players like Javed Hussain and Sukumar Hembrom, who are playing pivotal roles in the team’s achievements.

One notable player is forward Sambit Pradhan, a regular contributor for the Heroes who has participated in every match this season.

Regarding the atmosphere within the team’s locker room, Sambit expressed, “The team environment is excellent. Even after our recent loss to the Bengaluru Bravehearts, there was no blame game. Our coach, DJ Forbes, even organized a burger party to uplift our spirits while we strategized for upcoming matches.”

Sambit emphasized the influence of foreign players on Indian athletes, noting the learning opportunities from these seasoned internationals. He stated, “I never imagined I’d be playing alongside such renowned rugby stars I had only seen on television. They exhibit exceptional technical skills and remain calm under pressure, which is something we Indian players need to emulate.”

He believes, “In three to four years, with the RPL, new Indian talents will emerge and enhance their skills. My teammate Javed Hussain has already gained recognition for his strong performances, and more players will follow in his footsteps.”

The 27-year-old hails from Adaspur, a village located in Cuttack district, Odisha, and comes from a farming family. He began his rugby journey later than most, during his time at Biju Pattnaik College in Bhubaneswar, where he spent his childhood.

Reflecting on how he started, he shared, “An older student invited me to join the rugby team. Initially hesitant, I was intrigued by the opportunity to play at a stadium, an experience I had yet to have. That’s how I got involved.”

“I then participated in the senior nationals for Odisha, which marked the beginning of my career. In 2015, I competed in the senior nationals in Bihar, where I became serious about my game, aiming to prove my worth as the youngest member of my team.”

Although he was actively participating in tournaments for his state and clubs, Sambit faced a setback in 2019 when he suffered an injury, taking a three-year hiatus from the sport. “I broke my hand during a tournament in Amritsar and was unable to play for three years. After undergoing surgery at a government hospital, I feared I might never play rugby again, but the doctors reassured me I would recover, which restored my confidence.”

Sambit dedicated himself to recovery while working part-time at a school teaching various sports to children. In 2022, he returned to the field with the Bhubaneswar Rugby Club, ultimately making his way back to the elite level with the Rugby Premier League.