Uganda Cricket Association (UCA) and Kansai Plascon Uganda have entered into a partnership worth UGX240M, a deal that sees the latter become the main sponsors of the men’s national team, Cricket Cranes.
This development was confirmed on Thursday at Lugogo Cricket Oval in an event graced by all the parties involved, including the National Council of Sports.
The partnership comes with a two-year package split into cash and none cash commitment, that is; UGX240M – Total two year sponsorship, UGX70M – Total cash per year (UGX140M for two years) and an annual none cash activation commitment of UGX50M (UGX100M for two years).
With Cricket Cranes having a tight schedule coming up both at continental and international level, UCA CEO Martin Ondeko is optimistic that Plascon’s arrival on the scene will help the team on and off the turf.
“This is a huge moment for UCA. I’ve never seen such a huge launch in my time at the Association. These are tough times hence getting a partner is a good thing for the men’s national team and cricket as a whole. I believe this will motivate the team perform well,” Ondeko said.
“Our vision is to achieve international excellence and we shall go there with you (Plascon). We have many events lined up and we believe the team will perform well,” Ondeko who was flanked by the Association’s Chairman Michael Nuwagaba said adding that they won’t let down Plascon for they are a big brand.
On Monday next week the team will be heading out for the tour of Namibia. The side will be hosting the Challenge League in June, play at the World Cup Qualifiers in July in Zimbabwe and will also be involved in the Pearl of Africa Series, Challenge League B, T20 World Cup and Tour of Nigeria later this year.
Speaking about the partnership the Plascon MD Santosh Gumte noted that; “At Plascon we celebrate colour in all aspects of our consumers’ lives. But that’s not merely a marketing mantra. It’s our DNA. It’s the compass that guides everything we do. Colour is more than just paint; It’s about adding value, joy and beauty to our everyday life, in the things that we do. This sponsorship is a continuation of that commitment.”
“We appreciate the role of sports development in our lives, providing employment, international accolades galvanising people from all walks of life. The passion and camaraderie at the games epitomizes what Plascon stands for; the colour we strive to bring to everyone’s world. We wish our national team the very best going forward,” Santosh Gumte added.
Going forward, during non-ICC tournaments, Plascon will have its branding emblazoned on the front of the Cricket Cranes jersey, while for ICC events the branding will be carried on the sleeves. The agreement also covers the branding of the training kit.
