Mumbai: As India’s first-ever franchise-based Rugby Sevens tournament, the GMR Rugby Premier League (RPL) kicks off, it is witnessing robust participation from leading brands like Sportz Interactive, HSBC India, and Priority Pass, who are helping elevate the sport’s visibility, digital presence, and athlete experience.
Backed by Rugby India and GMR Sports, RPL has become a compelling platform for both sporting innovation and brand engagement. From digital innovation to athlete-centric partnerships, companies are rallying behind the sport in a show of confidence in rugby’s growing relevance in India.
Sportz Interactive: Powering RPL’s Digital Transformation
Sportz Interactive (SI) has joined forces with RPL as its official digital and content partner, aiming to reshape how rugby is experienced online in India. SI launched the official RPL website (www.rugbypremierleague.in), set up and manages the league’s social channels, and is spearheading campaign initiatives like the #RugRugMeinRugby movement. It has also delivered high-impact content around marquee events including franchise and player announcements.
Speaking on the development, Chintan Shah, SVP – Teams at Sportz Interactive said, “Rugby is stepping into an exciting new era in India and we’re excited to collaborate with the Rugby Premier League to bring this vision to life. From establishing its digital presence to creating impactful stories, we view this as more than just a league; it’s a movement. At Sportz Interactive, we’re dedicated to blending data, design, and storytelling to spark fan enthusiasm and unlock the sport’s full potential.”
HSBC India: Title Sponsor and Global Rugby Advocate
Banking giant HSBC India has stepped in as the Powered By partner for the league’s inaugural season, aligning its global legacy in rugby promotion with India’s first-of-its-kind rugby league.
Priority Pass: Enhancing Team Travel with Chennai Bulls
In a first-of-its-kind move, Priority Pass™, the leading global airport lounge access programme by Collinson International, has become the Official Airport Lounge Partner for the Chennai Bulls, one of RPL’s franchise teams.
Each player and coach on the Chennai Bulls roster will receive a one-year Priority Pass Prestige Membership, offering access to over 1,700 airport lounges worldwide.
Commenting on the partnership with the Chennai Bulls Team, Todd Handcock, Global Chief Commercial Officer and Asia Pacific Executive Chair, Collinson International, said, “India’s inaugural rugby sevens league marks a significant step toward establishing rugby as a premier sport in India, while supporting aspiring athletes; and as such, we are thrilled to be supporting the Chennai Bulls. By providing the team with access to Priority Pass’ airport lounges and travel experiences when travelling domestically within India as well as globally, we hope that they can enjoy a better rest before their flights and arrive at their destinations feeling more refreshed and ready to perform at their best.”
Gaurav Goyal, Chennai Bulls, India Lead said, “We are thankful for Priority Pass’ dedication and support for our athletes as they embark on this milestone competition. This valued partnership will greatly enhance the travel experience for our teams, significantly easing the burden of travel-related stress and allowing our athletes to deliver their best performance.”
The GMR Rugby Premier League began on 15 June 2025, with the finals scheduled for 29 June at Mumbai’s Shahaji Raje Bhosale Sports Complex. The tournament features 34 matches and brings together 30 marquee international players from rugby powerhouses like New Zealand, Fiji, and Great Britain, alongside 30 Indian athletes.
