An exciting collaboration is set to redefine the landscape of rugby events in Papua New Guinea (PNG) for the next three years. Rookies Rugby was delighted to announce a landmark partnership with XCMG (PNG) Engineering Machinery Ltd as the exclusive naming right sponsor of the Rookie 7s for the next three years (2024 to 2026). According to a media statement, the Rookies as it is affectionately termed, will now bear the official title of XCMG Rookie 7s throughout the duration of this partnership. This agreement reflects the shared commitment of XCMG and the Rookie 7s to elevate the tournament's profile, enhance fan experiences, and foster the growth of rugby on a national scale. Key Highlights of the Partnership is to Enhance Tournament Experience so fans can look forward to an enhanced tournament experience with exciting activations, innovative fan engagement initiatives, and unique opportunities to connect with their favorite teams and players. The partnership will provide the Rookie 7s with unparalleled visibility. This exposure includes prominent branding throughout the tournament, on broadcast platforms, and across various digital channels. Managing Director of XCMG, Mr. Jimmy Lin stated that the company is committed to supporting grassroots rugby development and community initiatives of the Rookie 7s. “This partnership will be the game changer. We are proud to be the naming right sponsor of a Papua New Guinean product that has consistently delivered for the sport of rugby union and its communities”. He said that XCMG was desirous of supporting grassroots initiatives that played a direct role in the transformation, elevation and prosperity of Papua New Guineans. “The corporate social values of XCMG align with the tournament values, so the decision to become the naming right partner was an easy one.” “We will work closely with the Rookie 7s Committee, to grow this platform and create initiatives that will have meaningful impact in our communities”. Founder of the Rookie 7s, Cybele Wari, expressed enthusiasm about this agreement, saying that this will be the first time since the tournament’s inception in 2006, that the Rookie 7s will have a committed naming right partner for three years. “Securing partners has been challenging, despite the tournament having a compelling case for success.” “Hence, we are excited about this partnership, especially what it means for the growth of the tournament, and being able to continue to deliver a high value product for the code. Meanwhile the President of PNGRU, Mr. Paul Siwi, in response to the partnership deal mentioned that long term partnerships are vital to the advancement of rugby in PNG. “They ensure that key programs continue to be staged over a fixed period of time and boost development on the ground. The benefits and impact of this partnership will also be felt at the national level.” “We congratulate the Rookie 7s Team, and XCMG on this historic partnership and warmly welcome XCMG to the code of rugby union and to our wider family of sponsors. This partnership is a win for rugby and our communities.” The XCMG Rookie 7s promises to be an unforgettable experience, bringing together the best of rugby talent, passionate fans, and the innovative spirit that defines both the Rookie 7s and the sport of Rugby 7s.