Bradford heritage project preserves South Asian rugby history

The hidden stories of South Asian contributions to rugby are being brought to light through a new heritage project at the Bradford Bulls Heritage Lunch (Image: Supplied)

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The hidden stories of South Asian contributions to rugby are being brought to light through a new heritage project.

Dr Ikram Butt, of the British Asian Rugby Association (BARA), spoke about the ongoing work during a Bradford Bulls Heritage Lunch at Odsal Stadium, where he discussed BARA’s Beyond the Try Line project.

The project documents the history and contribution of South Asian people to rugby, and Dr Butt’s contribution to the book More Rugby League Nostalgia draws on this research.

Dr Butt said: "It was a privilege to attend the Bulls Heritage Lunch and contribute to More Rugby League Nostalgia.

"The paragraph draws on the research BARA is carrying out through Beyond the Try Line, capturing people and stories that deserve to be remembered and shared."

Beyond the Try Line features interviews, photographs, and community stories, and is supported by The National Lottery Heritage Fund.

It includes a touring exhibition, oral histories, school resources, and a digital heritage collection.