dyton mupawaenda
Don Makanyanga-Zimpapers Sports Hub
LEADING financial services company, Mukuru, has partnered Zimbabwe Cricket senior men’s national team in a one-year shirt sponsorship deal.
The deal, which is worth US$300 000 will see the logo of the financial services occupying the front part of the national team jersey in all the three formats of the game.
ZC managing director, Givemore Makoni described the one-year shirt sponsorship deal with Mukuru as an exciting partnership, which will play a part in the growth of the sport.
“We are excited to be part of the deal and we are very impressed with Mukuru.
“We thank them for identifying with the game, for supporting the growth of the game, for ensuring that there is investment in the development of the game and also in the national team,” said Makoni.
He revealed that the one-year deal will run across all the three formats of the game and will see ZC having the first right of refusal over a three-year period.
“The deal is for the three formats, the T20, the 50 over format and the test. It’s for the men’s cricket and it’s going to be a year subject, it’s valid for a year which will be reviewed for the next three years in terms of the right of first refusal. It’s for specific tours,” said the ZC managing director.
ZC chairman, Tavengwa Mukuhlani described the deal as a shot in the arm for local cricket.
“I guess, as an organisation and as a supporting institution, we do need support in terms of sponsorship and this deal will go a long way in covering the gap between what we generate internally, our normal ICC distribution, and other inflow avenues and revenue streams,” said the ZC chairman.
Mukuru Financial Services Zimbabwe, chief executive, Douglas Tait-Knight described the deal as the start of long-term partnership which will seek to build strong future for the sport.
“We are not only announcing a partnership, but also celebrating a common goal.
“Our mission as a leading financial services provider has been to empower not only customers, but our communities which we are proudly a part of.
“Today, this mission includes supporting Zimbabwean cricket, building a strong future for the sport, and inspiring young cricketers.
“We truly believe that this partnership between Mukuru and the men’s nation cricket team, the Chevrons, is a testament to our collective commitment to growth and development of Zimbabwe’s sporting talent,” said Tait-Knight.
Mukuru chief marketing officer, Brandon Mncube added that this was an important milestone for the trusted and purpose-built brand, which showcases a commitment to nurturing talents.
“With Mukuru, we have been about unlocking possibilities and investing in much-loved sports such as cricket,” Mncube said.
“We are reaffirming our role as a brand championing the continent’s boundless potential on and off the field.
“Cricket is a powerful sport that showcases resilience, unity and triumph and is aligned to drive impact across various audiences.”
