A Life in Rugby: Jamie Bhatti’s journey of heart and hard work

By Peter Ryan

Peter Ryan speaks to Jamie Bhatti about his remarkable rise from Hillfoots RFC to the international stage, reflecting on his love for Glasgow Warriors, representing Scotland, and a rugby journey built on passion, perseverance, and pride.

“Rugby’s my livelihood, it’s my way of life. Don’t get me wrong, it does get tough at times when the body’s getting sore. I’m fortunate to have been doing it for how long as I have, and I wouldn’t have it any other way.”

The bond between Jamie Bhatti and rugby runs deep. The game has been a consistent presence throughout the Scotsman’s life.

A player who has achieved an immense amount in the sport, from representing Scotland to winning league titles. He has an exceptional story to dive into.

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Foundations

Every athlete’s story starts somewhere, and the road to the grand stadiums often begins on muddy pitches.

For Bhatti, those pitches can be found at Hillfoots RFC, where he competed for the first time.

From Hillfoots to the heart of Stirling County, his passion was forged, and his senior journey began.

Bhatti talked about those clubs with fondness, and highlighting Melrose RFC’s impact on him.

“Hillfoots was the club where I first picked up a ball and started to play the game, so if they never had the youth section and support for Jamie Bhatti, who knows what would’ve happened, and I will always remember and credit Hillfoots for that,” he says.

“Stirling was where I fell in love with the game and made me want to keep playing. It’s where I had fun and transitioned into senior rugby.

“I have lifelong friends from the club, and I’ll always cherish that. Melrose RFC was the club that gave me the stepping stone into pro rugby, and all credit to John Dalziel and Mike Dalgetty.

“I wouldn’t be where I am without their support at the start of my journey… almost 10 years ago.”

After years of preparation and hard work, it was time to step into the professional game, and that chance came with the Glasgow Warriors.

For club

In November 2016, he ran out with the Glasgow Warriors for the first time. He would make over 100 appearances for the club over two stints.

Bhatti’s initial stint with Glasgow was filled with moments to cherish, none greater than the Pro12 semi-final triumph over Ulster that paved the way to the final.

Bhatti would also spend time in the Scottish capital, with Edinburgh, and also suited up for Bath.

However, in the summer of 2021, Bhatti returned home to Scotstoun. The prop would be a part of a Warriors team that would go toe-to-toe with Toulon in the 2023 Challenge Cup final.

The following season, Glasgow had a sensational run to the URC title. It included an away win against Munster and an incredible last stand against the Vodacom Bulls to clinch the trophy.

The way Bhatti talks about Glasgow, you can tell there is a steadfast love there: “Glasgow is my team.

“I grew up a fan, and I’ll be forever grateful to have represented them the number of times I have played my part in some historical moments for the club and worked alongside some world-class players and coaches.”

Not long after he made his debut for Glasgow, the international stage came calling, proving that Bhatti can produce not only for club but also for country.

For country

“As cliché as it is, it is a dream come true to play for your country, and there’s no better feeling than to sing your anthem in a packed Murrayfield.”

When I asked Bhatti what it meant to represent Scotland, he said all you need to know.

From age-grade promise to the senior stage, his journey came full circle in 2017 when he debuted for Scotland against Samoa.

He has been a part of significant moments in Scottish rugby, including wins over Australia and England.

The prop competed in the 2023 World Cup, facing South Africa and Romania. Bhatti has won over 30 caps for his nation and scored his first international try against Portugal in last year’s Autumn Series.

To play on the international stage is the highest level you can get. So, the fact that Bhatti has played for Scotland a multitude of times speaks to his quality

“My advice would be to enjoy every moment, Bhatti adds. “Listen to coaches and other players.

“Professional rugby has many highs and lows to match, but everyone gets through them. Enjoy it and have some fun along the way.”

Bhatti’s advice to young players gives you an excellent idea of how he goes about playing rugby.

Give 100% effort, and good things will come. Enjoy yourself. Bhatti’s story is one of grit, triumph, and pride; as his journey continues, the future looks full of promise.

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