The contribution of British Asian rugby players, coaches and volunteers has been celebrated at the heart of Westminster after a heritage exhibition highlighting their role in the sport was showcased in the UK Parliament.
The Beyond the Try Line, Celebrating Community Heritage in Rugby exhibition was organised by the British Asian Rugby Association (BARA) and supported by The National Lottery Heritage Fund. MPs, peers and parliamentary staff gathered on the 6 July to explore the often-overlooked stories of those who helped shape rugby in Britain.
Featuring historic photographs, replica jerseys, oral histories and archive material, the exhibition celebrates generations of British Asian players and community figures whose contribution to both rugby league and rugby union has often gone unrecognised.
The event received cross-party backing, with MPs including David Baines, Judith Cummins, Harpreet Uppal, Kim Leadbeater, Jo Platt, Jade Botterill and Iqbal Mohamed among those attending.
For BARA, which is marking its 20th anniversary this year, bringing the exhibition to Parliament represents an important moment in recognising British Asian sporting heritage on a national stage.
Dr Ikram Butt, Executive Director of BARA and the first British Asian to represent England in either code of rugby, said the exhibition was about ensuring these stories become part of Britain’s wider sporting history.
“Bringing ‘Beyond the Try Line’ to Parliament is a proud moment for everyone involved. These stories are not simply part of South Asian history—they are part of rugby’s history and Britain’s sporting heritage.” He went on the say that:
“By preserving these stories today, we can inspire future generations tomorrow.”
The exhibition forms part of a wider heritage project documenting the experiences of British Asian players, coaches, referees and volunteers through exhibitions, educational activities and oral history recordings.
Supporters say it also highlights rugby’s role in breaking down barriers and creating opportunities for people from different backgrounds.
David Baines MP, Chair of the All-Party Parliamentary Rugby League Group, said the exhibition reflected rugby’s long-standing connection with local communities.
“Rugby league has always been a sport rooted in community, opportunity and resilience, and this exhibition shines a light on the important contribution British Asian players, volunteers and communities have made to our game.”
Organisers hope the exhibition will encourage greater recognition of the role British Asian communities have played in the development of rugby, while inspiring more young people to become involved in the sport.
Following its appearance in Parliament, Beyond the Try Line will continue touring clubs, schools, community venues and heritage events across the UK as part of BARA’s ongoing programme to preserve rugby’s diverse history.
