Sponsorship boost for academy
Solly M Sports steps up to support local cricket
WHAT began as a humble sports goods business in Verulam on the KZN North Coast three decades ago is now the name behind Kwazulunatal’s premier cricket academy.
Durban-based Solly M Sports has reached an agreement with the KZN Cricket Union to become the title sponsor of their Coastal Academy, which is based at the Kingsmead Cricket Stadium.
It heralds the start of a one-year deal, with an option to renew, at a project which has unearthed the likes of Senuran Muthusamy, Proteas spinner Keshav Maharaj and current Hollywoodbets captain Khaya Zondo.
Speaking at the launch of the partnership, Solly M Sports chief executive Imtiaz Karodia said: “Our choice to partner with KZN Cricket was a no brainer.
“This partnership is more than purely a business deal, it is also a shared love and passion for cricket and the fact that there is so much of untapped potential from grassroots level right up to this academy.”
Three years ago, the brand upped its stake in the market when it acquired the exclusive distribution rights to Indian cricket gear brand PR Cricket.
“We are proud to have ambassadors like Keshav Maharaj, Christiaan Jonker and Tabraiz
Shamsi, who proudly wear PR
Cricket apparel,” Karodia said.
“These players, when available, will go down to the academy to share their experience and mentor youngsters,” he added.
KZNCU’S coaching manager, Desigan Reddy, is upbeat about the deal.
“These guys are passionate about cricket and bring tremendous energy to the project,” Reddy said. “Their contribution will go a long way in helping us to keep the pipeline going.”
Players involved in the programme compete in the Cricket SA National Academy 1-Day and 3-Day Week. They also regularly feature for the Dolphins B side.
“It helps us to grow various programmes and allows our players to go on tour, and play against the best cricketers. The value is endless.
“We are grateful and I have no doubt that we will do their brand proud,” Reddy concluded.