Two players from Odisha, Ashish Shabar and Ajit Kumar Hasada, have secured spots in the Indian squad for the forthcoming Asia Rugby Men’s Division 1 Championship, scheduled to take place in Colombo from April 30 to May 4. This announcement positions them to represent the nation on an international platform. India is slated to compete against the host nation, Sri Lanka, in the semifinals on April 30. The other semifinal will feature Qatar and Kazakhstan, both formidable opponents in the rugby arena.

The tournament structure includes a final match for the winners of the semifinals, who will vie for the coveted Asian title. Additionally, there will be a third-place playoff for the semifinal runners-up, offering a chance for redemption. With this selection, Shabar and Hasada have the opportunity to showcase their skills and contribute to India’s performance on the rugby field. Their inclusion in the national squad not only reflects their individual talent but also underscores the growing recognition of rugby as a sport in Odisha.