A BOLLYWOOD star and a maharajah's son are just two of the opponents Pershore Rugby Club players will be facing this weekend.

The players form part of India's national rugby team and are touring England in an attempt to raise the profile of the game among Asians. The side will be based at Wood Norton Hall and use the Pershore club as a training ground during their stay. The match against Pershore this Sunday will be one of three played in the Midlands.

Pershore captain Andy Watson said: "This is probably the biggest game the club has seen with a full international side playing. India just failed to qualify for the World Cup and they are ranked 89th in the world."

Mr Watson, who will captain the Pershore side on match day added: "Our players are looking forward to the match and I think we should give the Indian team a good run for their money. We have definitely picked a good side."

Indian RFU president Pramod Khanna said: "India has a rich heritage in rugby but the sport has never taken off as it should have done. The potential is far more than one sees and it is the concerted effort of a few dedicated die-hards and lovers of the game who have taken it upon themselves to promote and popularise it in India."

The match kicks off at 2pm this Sunday at Pershore Rugby Football Club on Mill Lane, Wyre Piddle. Doors open at 12noon.