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BARA Looks To Bridge The Divide
Source: Rob Wilkinson
Author: Rob Wilkinson
Ikram Butt, former england rugby league star and current MD of the British Asian Rugby Association (BARA), is aiming to bring the two rugby codes closer together after meeting with Martyn Thomas, Chairman of the RFU Management Board.
The BARA chief met up with Martyn along with fellow BARA Director Jug Johal to discuss community-based cross code initiatives that would positively impact on all sections of the communities in particularly the UK’s Asian communities.
“We met with Martyn to discuss how the RFU can assist with BARA’s current programme of activities and vice versa,” explained Ikram who recently received notable recognition in the Asian Power 100 Future Leaders awards.
“Both parties agreed on the importance of our work straddling both the thirteen and fifteen-a-side games to create a vibrant and exciting vision for the future, here in the UK and abroad” added Ikram.
Martyn Thomas commented: “I am in full agreement that both codes should work together to help support initiatives such as those proposed by Ikram and BARA. The old divisions are long gone and we must all recognize that we have a part to play in what is our collective sporting culture.
“Our two proud codes should work alongside BARA in promoting health, well being and teamwork for future generations,” added Thomas.
BARA was praised recently by Prime Minister Gordon during PM Question Time and has been officially endorsed for its work by Sports Minister Gerry Sutcliffe MP.
BARA Directors Jug Johal and Ikram bridging the divide of both codes of rugby with Martyn Thomas, Chair of the RFU Management Board
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