Photo Credit: Lions Cricket
DP World is the current headline partner to both the Men and Women professional teams, as well as to iconic stadium DP World Wanderers. Going one step further, the logistics giant today confirmed a partnership extension.
It’s a proud day for the Pride, welcoming DP World onboard as headline sponsor to both the Central Gauteng Lions Blind and Central Gauteng Lions Deaf cricket teams.
In March 2022, following DP World’s acquisition of Imperial, the men’s and women’s teams of Lions Cricket, as well as the home of South Africa’s iconic and exclusive Tier One stadium, Wanderers Stadium transitioned from the Imperial Brand to DP World.
The DP World Wanderers Stadium has, and continues to, host world class events on a global standard from ICC Cricket World Cup finals to the Davis Cup Tennis, music concerts, product launches, weddings, Presidential speeches, the SA20 final and so much more.
With bat and ball in hand, both the DP World Lions Men and Women teams are enjoying a solid season to date and are delighted to share the sponsorship pie with fellow team mates of both the Blind and Deaf teams.
The support of DP World will come as a welcomed reward to two teams who have given the game everything they’ve got over recent years, representing their Union and country with tremendous success.
Lions Cricket CEO Jono Leaf-Wright bursts with pride:
“Today is a huge win for the game of cricket. We always knew that this global partnership was the continuation of greater things to come, and the backing of our Blind and Deaf teams is indicative of a company that is true to its word, fair and wholeheartedly behind, and a part of, our Pride. On behalf of our Board, our teams, our stadium and our fans, I thank DP World for further empowering Lions Cricket. It is our honour to hunt with you.”
The DP World Lions Deaf Cricket Team are the current Inter-Provincial Tournament champions; and Chairperson Sivesh Poonsamy thanks DP World for their support.
“The Pride of Lions Deaf Cricket and our success is aligned with DP World’s vision through the partnership of creating inclusivity for Deaf and HOH (Hard of Hearing) cricketers. We recognize the support from DP World and we wear our attire with immense pride. We honour the ongoing relationship and appreciate the upliftment of Lions Deaf Cricket. Together with Lions Cricket and DP World, we convey our successes on and off the field.”
The DP World Lions Blind Cricket Team are the South Africa One Day Cup champions; and President and Captain Isaac Bidla extends his teams heart-felt ‘Thank You’ to DP World;
“We are so appreciative of your backing. This partnership will bring tremendous life, hope, vigor and vitality to the players, officials, media and supporters. We know the importance and significance of this partnership and are thrilled to don such a powerful brand come game day and beyond. You have elevated this team to new heights, and we are motivated and even more determined than ever before because of it.”
Esha Mansingh, DP World’s Head of Corporate Affairs & Sustainability for sub-Saharan Africa, expressed pride in the extended partnership with Lions Cricket, emphasizing the very necessary broader diversity and inclusion objective for sport on the African continent:
“This partnership extension reaffirms our dual commitment to sports development and fostering a more equal and inclusive community. These values, crucial for nation-building, are exemplified by the players who serve as inspirational figures for individuals with disabilities, showcasing that success in sports and all aspects of life is attainable for everyone.”
“Our support levels the playing field, ensuring that the teams enjoy the same opportunity as the DP World Lions’ Men and Women teams. Looking ahead, our commitment lies in empowering every player, coach, and manager with equal opportunities in all aspects of their cricketing journey,” Mansingh added.
As the announcement news settled and the sun set on the DP World Wanderers Stadium, rest assured that the City of Gold wont sleep and that the DP World Lions Pride are hungrier for success than they’ve ever been.
