Konica Minolta South Africa supports bizhub Highveld Lions cricket for fourth season

15 September 2009

Bidvest company, Konica Minolta South Africa has confirmed its continued support of the bizhub Highveld Lions cricket team by renewing its sponsorship of R2.2 million for the 2009/2010 season. This is the fourth consecutive season that the company will be backing the franchise.

The sponsorship agreement includes patronage for the Lions Cricket Academy in Potchefstroom, who will also continue to benefit from the Konica Minolta South Africa partnership. The academy plays a big role in moulding future cricket players through coaching a selected 8 to 10 players annually, bridging the gap between amateur and professional cricket. These young cricketers are prepared physically, mentally and tactically for the professional game.

"As the proud sponsor of the bizhub Highveld Lions cricket team for the past three years, we at Konica Minolta South Africa trust that our investment will carry on contributing to the development of players, the franchise and the game of cricket," says Janine Ferreira, Konica Minolta South Africa public relations officer.
According to Alan Kourie, CEO of Gauteng Cricket, both Konica Minolta South Africa and co-sponsor 94.7 perfectly fits the culture of the bizhub Highveld Lions. "We truly appreciate the continued support and are delighted with the successful partnership that has been built over the years. All parties involved work together exceptionally well with the franchise’s best interest at heart," he says.

Supporters can look forward to an exciting cricket season for the bizhub Highveld Lions with Dane Vilas having been named "Domestic Newcomer of the Year" for the last season and three new signings that will bring both experience and youth to the group. These include Zander de Bruyn, a former Lion who is returning home after playing county cricket for Somerset, Thami Tsolekile from the Cape Cobras and Ugasen Govender from the Dolphins.