Cricket South Africa (CSA) has announced a significant multi-year partnership, welcoming Suzuki Auto South Africa as the official vehicle partner and headline sponsor for the Proteas men’s and women’s One Day International (ODI) teams.
This landmark agreement marks Suzuki‘s inaugural sponsorship of a national sporting team and fills a crucial void for the Proteas ODI sides, which had been without a headline sponsor since 2020.
Beyond prominent branding on the iconic Proteas ODI playing shirts, the collaboration underscores Suzuki’s deep commitment to bolstering South African sport at all levels. As the official vehicle partner, Suzuki has already made a tangible investment in grassroots cricket development by providing a fleet of 30 vehicles to CSA’s nationwide Development Hubs. These vehicles will play a vital role in improving access to training facilities and opportunities for aspiring young cricketers across the country. Furthermore, CSA’s operational efficiency will be enhanced through the allocation of an additional 12 vehicles.
Commenting on the occasion, CSA Chief Executive Officer, Pholetsi Moseki, said, “Cricket South Africa (CSA) is proud to welcome Suzuki, one of the country’s household names in the motor industry, to the CSA family.
“This partnership aligns with the organisation’s strategic pillars of excellence and access, providing us with an exciting opportunity to grow the game and inspire the next generation of cricketers. Like CSA, Suzuki is dedicated to delivering exceptional value and unmatched customer service to South Africans.
“Their commitment to South African cricket is further strengthened through this collaboration, and together, we drive inclusivity and create opportunities for all to be part of this incredible journey.”
General Manager of Sales and Marketing at Suzuki Auto South Africa, Henno Havenga, added, “A first for Suzuki in South Africa. Suzuki Auto South Africa is honoured to announce this partnership, that marks the brand’s first-ever sponsorship of a national team.
“It is a milestone that reflects the brand’s commitment to South African sport and talent. Suzuki Auto South Africa is proud to stand alongside both the Proteas Men’s and Women’s ODI teams as their official partner, reinforcing its dedication to development and excellence in sport.
“While this partnership is primarily focused on the ODI teams, Suzuki Auto South Africa’s presence will extend across all formats of the game, including T20 and Test cricket.
“It also creates a great platform for the Suzuki brand to create a passion for sport and support the development of young talent. Sport has always been a unifier, bringing people together and driving meaningful change in communities.
“Through this collaboration, Suzuki Auto South Africa is not only supporting the national teams but also making an impact at the grassroots level, ensuring that young cricketers across South Africa have the resources and opportunities to grow within the game.”
While the headline sponsorship is focused on the ODI format for both national teams, Suzuki’s presence will extend across all formats of the game, including T20 and Test cricket, ensuring consistent brand visibility throughout the cricketing calendar. This comprehensive partnership underscores the shared values of excellence and community service held by both CSA and Suzuki.
This announcement marks a significant step forward for South African cricket, providing crucial financial backing and signalling a renewed era of robust corporate partnerships for the national teams. Suzuki Auto South Africa’s commitment to both the elite and developmental echelons of the game promises a positive and lasting impact on the future of cricket in the country.
Cricket South Africa (CSA) is the governing body for professional and amateur cricket in South Africa. Its mission is to promote, advance, and administer cricket in South Africa, ensuring the game is accessible to all and that the national teams achieve sustained success on the global stage.
Suzuki Auto South Africa is a subsidiary of Suzuki Motor Corporation of Japan, offering a range of vehicles known for their reliability, affordability, and fuel efficiency. Committed to the South African market, Suzuki Auto South Africa continues to expand its presence and support local initiatives.