IRFU joins hands with Capgemini to support Rugby 7s in India
The sport of Rugby in India received a huge shot in the arm when worldwide partners of World Rugby, Capgemini announced its partnership with the Indian Rugby Football Union (IRFU) on Wednesday. In a first for Capgemini India, they will , support the development of India's Rugby 7s men's, women's, boys and girls teams. This announcement marks yet another step in Capgemini's rugby story and its commitment towards promoting the agenda of diversity and inclusion through sports.
Commenting on the partnership, Ashwin Yardi, CEO of Capgemini in India said, "At Capgemini the principles of diversity and inclusion are a
source of creativity, innovation,
and inspiration for us. To further strengthen our commitment, we are delighted to partner with IRFU on Rugby 7s as this marks a new chapter in our association with Rugby and our first entry into sports in India. At Capgemini we are a people business, and this association reflects our core brand values of team spirit and fun, coupled with our commitment to creating inclusive workplaces."
Rahul Bose, President, Rugby India said, "The story of the growth of Rugby as a sport in India is a story of diversity and inclusion. Today our women's program is as strong as our men's, our outreach to tribal youth in different parts of the country is as deep as in non-tribal areas. Our commitment to spreading the sport amongst underprivileged
populations is as sharp as it is to those who live in more fortunate circumstances.
With a new board having taken over reigns of the sport, Rugby is on a fast track of growth and development and global success will surely follow, according to IRFU President Rahul Bose. He said, "Over the last decade the sport has seen a major rise in following and participation and Rugby India has been instrumental in garnering this interest across the country. There has been a significant growth and increase in participation numbers and currently over 150 Rugby Clubs, 2000+ Schools & Universities and100000+ players are playing across 350+ Districts in 27 States & Union Territories in India," he added.