London — The inaugural British Asian Rugby Awards took place at the Palace of Westminster, celebrating the achievements and contributions of British South Asians to rugby. Organized by the British Asian Rugby Association (BARA) and supported by the Rugby Football League (RFL) and Rugby Football Union (RFU), the awards aim to inspire engagement, promote role models, and increase South Asian representation in rugby. Hosted in Speakers House by RFL President Rt Hon Sir Lindsay Hoyle MP, the event marked a historic milestone, with over 100 attendees honoring individuals who have positively impacted rugby and their communities.

The awards recognized players, coaches, schools, and clubs that champion diversity, including 18-year-old Hamza Butt, who was awarded the Outstanding Talent Award. Butt, a promising centre from Burnley, has joined Wigan Warriors Academy after successful stints with Wigan St Pats and Leigh Miners Rangers. Huddersfield Giants and Bradford Bulls were also honored for their dedication to creating an inclusive environment within Rugby League.

BARA founder Dr. Ikram Butt, the first British South Asian to represent England in rugby, emphasized the event’s significance. “These awards highlight the success of South Asians who have inspired others, challenged stereotypes, and uplifted communities,” said Dr. Butt. “Hosting this in Parliament underscores the importance of representation and inclusivity in sport. BARA has always used rugby to drive social change, foster cultural understanding, and promote community cohesion. In challenging times, sport has the power to unite, break down prejudices, and create a sense of belonging.”

The awards also spotlighted the RFL’s commitment to inclusivity. Tony Sutton, RFL CEO, expressed his pride in the event, saying, “Rugby League is about unity, breaking down barriers, and creating opportunities for all. We are thrilled to support BARA in this initiative and look forward to championing these efforts for years to come.” Ben Abberstein, RFL Senior EDI Partner, highlighted the impact of the awards: “It was uplifting to see so many from the South Asian community involved in Rugby League. Through BARA, we are able to amplify their stories and inspire future generations.”

British Asian Rugby Awards Winners:

• Rising Star Award: Nimrah Gul (Halifax Panthers)
• Outstanding Talent Award: Hamza Butt (Wigan Warriors)
• School Sport Excellence: Parkinson Lane Primary, Olive Tree Primary
• Inclusion Awards: Manjinder Nagra, Beena Chadha
• Grassroots Excellence: Mick Johal, Humayun Islam
• Professional Club: Huddersfield Giants, Bradford Bulls
• Coach of Excellence: Navneet Sembi
• Community Excellence: Zeinab Drabu, Starr Zaman
• International Excellence: Nasser Hussain

BARA Hall of Fame Inductees: Jaswant Chatha, Mandip Sehmi PLY, Manjinder Nagra, Jagmohan Johal, Junaid Malik, Syed Ali, Mamminder Singh Samra