Spanish rugby star Manuel Moreno has been confirmed as captain of the Hyderabad Heroes for Season 2 of the Rugby Premier League (RPL), which kicks off on 16 June 2026 at the Gachibowli Stadium in Hyderabad. Indian rugby stalwart Sumit Kumar Roy has been named vice-captain, forming a dual leadership structure for the KLO Sports-backed franchise.

Leadership Continuity After a Bronze-Medal Run

Hyderabad Heroes finished with a bronze medal in RPL Season 1 and are now targeting the top spot. Moreno's retention as skipper provides continuity, while Roy's elevation to vice-captain signals the franchise's commitment to developing Indian talent at the highest level. The duo led together in Season 1 as well, making this the second successive season of their joint captaincy.

'Season 1 with the Hyderabad Heroes was an extremely fulfilling experience and definitely a team that I take great pride in leading. We had a tremendous outing last season, but we have unfinished business in the Rugby Premier League. Leading the team with Sumit Kumar Roy is a unique opportunity to learn different leadership styles with one goal, which is for the Hyderabad Heroes to go all the way,' said Moreno at the jersey reveal event held in Hyderabad.

Sumit Kumar Roy: India's Most Valued RPL Player

Sumit Kumar Roy was the highest-bid player in the RPL auction earlier this year, underlining his standing in the league. He has also captained the Indian national rugby team, bringing considerable leadership pedigree to his vice-captaincy role.

'Continuing with the Hyderabad Heroes is very special to me. The Hyderabad Heroes have always been extremely motivating and instrumental in the way I have grown as a player and a leader. Having the legendary DJ Forbes as the head coach is an honour, and every day during the season is a learning experience,' said Roy at the event.

DJ Forbes and the Full Squad

World Rugby Hall of Famer DJ Forbes returns as head coach. The squad is fully assembled and includes international names such as Kevin Wekesa, Regan Ware, Maurice Longbottom, Francisco Cosculluela, Wolfram Hacker, Ravuama Seruvakula, Diego Ardao, Taitaifono Senio Tavita, alongside Indian players Sambit Pradhan, Shivam Shukla, Rajan Rawat, and Muhammed Anes K.

'The squad is finally fully assembled, and I'm looking forward to the challenge of going one better than we did last year, but also putting on a strong performance for our city,' said Forbes.

Jersey Unveiled, Season Opener Set

The official Season 2 jersey was unveiled at an event attended by Rahul Bose, President of Rugby India and League Commissioner of the RPL, Sujoy Ganguly, Vice President and CMO of GMR Sports, and co-owner Srinath Chitoori of KLO Sports. Hyderabad Heroes open their campaign against the Bengaluru Bravehearts in the league's first match on 16 June 2026. With home advantage at Gachibowli and a reinforced squad, the Heroes enter Season 2 as credible title contenders.