Hardware company backs Ba Rugby

A LEADING hardware company and Ba Rugby officially sealed a groundbreaking partnership yesterday, solidifying the union’s most substantial sponsorship deal to date.

The agreement grants Vinod Patel the prestigious naming rights to the Ba men’s 15s team for the next three years, marking a significant milestone for both entities.

This strategic collaboration couldn’t come at a more opportune time for the Vilimoni Delasau’s side, as they gear up for a momentous return to the Skipper Cup after a hiatus of 26 years.

Henceforth, the team will proudly bear the moniker “Vinod Patel Ba.”

Vinod Patel’s CEO Rahul Amin underscored the profound significance of the partnership.

“This is so much more than branding and marketing,” Patel said.

“Ba is part of our corporate DNA. Our humble beginnings began in 1962 when our late visionary founder Mr Vinod Chandra Patel set up a small hardware shop in Ba. Our story is built on vision, excellence and hard work.

“We are indeed proud to back another team from our hometown that has the right disciplines, a pursuit for excellence and a vision for greatness.

“Equally important is that we believe in the power of sports to unite people and change lives. We want to invest in Ba Rugby to empower the people of Ba, especially in the remote and rural areas and particularly the youths.”

He continued, “Our late chairman Vinodbhai, an avid sports enthusiast always spoke of sports as a catalyst for discipline and hard work, especially for youths who are the future of the nation. We saw in 2023 how a strong and well-organised Ba Rugby Union could change mindsets and give young people hope and opportunity. This partnership is a tribute to our late founder”.

Delasau’s 35-man squad has been training together at Vinod Patel Park in Ba since December in preparation for their opening match against Suva on February 24.