World Rugby chairman sees Asia as 'future of the game'

Bernard Lapasset is World Rugby chairman. He is making a final play for Asia before he retires in May. His latest project is a sponsorship deal with Alibaba chairman Jack Ma. Rugby Sevens is being included at the Rio Olympics. It is faster and easier to understand than the rugby union game. It's also easier for females to get involved. Stirling Mortlock calls it a great vehicle for developing countries. The deal is worth $10 million. Mr Lapaset hopes it will open the market in all of Asia. "Rugby is not the same in Africa as it is in Europe and in South America and North America. We need to adapt the solutions country by country."

HSBC renewed the contract for World Rugby Sevens series sponsorship for another four years. Singapore is the second Asian city on the sevens circuit after Hong Kong. Tim Martin invested millions in rugby and has launched a digital streaming platform called RugbyPass. He believes rugby is emerging and there is chance to create a business in Asia.

World Rugby plans to spend more money in Asia. They have 400,000 registered players in the region and aim to increase that to one million by 2019. The organisation invested almost £9m in Asian between 2012 and 2015. Critics say the money doesn't trickle down to the grassroots. There are currently no rugby players registered in Cambodia. Some say rugby is catching on among locals. The sport is perceived as being only for large-framed people. Shane Dewar believes it's changing.

World Rugby chairman sees Asia as the future of the game. The All Blacks are considered the sport's most powerful brand. Mr Lapasset is stepping down to head Paris's bid for the 2024 Olympics. He is optimistic about the development of rugby in Asia.