Old Mutual back cricket

Chief Koti
THE focus might be on what is happening in the Caribbean but, back home, those who power the development of cricket haven’t stopped working.
Yesterday, Bulawayo’s Milton High School yesterday hosted all five Zimbabwe Cricket franchises for a sponsorship hand-over from Old Mutual.

This move revives the relationship between the two parties that had been on hold for about seven years when a tough economic environment pushed the sponsors away from the game.
Old Mutual signed a deal with Zimbabwe Cricket’s five franchises to bankroll a US$150 000 development programme for the sport.

The partnership was sealed in July last year and the ceremony yesterday marked the official handover over the sponsorship funds.
Old Mutual Group chief executive, Jonas Mushosho, said he expects the sponsorship to go a long way in developing cricket.
“This sponsorship will cover kit and equipment, refurbishment of facilities and coach education and capacity building,” Mushosho said.

“Initially ten pitches will be covered in the refurbishment programme, while 80 schools will be given equipment.
“These schools are drawn from across all five franchises and will cover both low and high density areas.

“In addition, we will also cover inter-franchise age group competitions.” The Matabeleland Tuskers senior team, led by captain Gavin Ewing, attended the ceremony.
A number of franchise development coaches and school heads were also in attendance.