Photo Credit: Twitter Profile Photo of @WitsUniversity
In an ongoing effort to develop talent and grow the game, Central Gauteng Lions (CGL) have partnered with The University of the Witswatersrand.
Commencing immediately, Wits University will avail their world-class facilities to the Central Gauteng Lions inclusive of cricket nets, cricket ovals, gymnasium, lecture hall, indoor cricket hall and office support from Wits University.
“We’ve worked extensively on this partnership with the overall objective being to optimize the collective resources that both parties have at their disposal,” says CGL CEO Jono Leaf-Wright.
“At our Union, we continuously strive to grow the game, ensuring that no talent lies unearthed. One of our main objectives is to create a regional academy that will provide opportunities for players from disadvantaged communities to develop academically and on the cricket field from the greater Gauteng region. In Wits University, we believe that we’ve found superb facilities and top-notch staff and I’ve no doubt that this partnership will further strengthen our offering to our CGL cricketing community.”
The partnership will also allow Wits University to make use of the CGL grounds should the need arise. In addition, CGL are responsible for the formation of development programmes, leadership programmes and all-round mentorship for Wits cricketing students.
“The Wits University Cricket Club and Wits Sport is proud to be in partnership with the Central Gauteng Lions and the Central Gauteng Lions Cricket Academy. We look forward to this relationship moving forward from strength to strength while cementing the talented pipeline of cricketers produced by this great province. Together we want to become the best Tertiary Cricket Programme and Provincial cricket structure in SA and these relationships are critical to ensure that we are both successful in our journey together. Our goal at Wits Sport is to become the university of choice for talented student athletes and we endeavour to provide all our athletes with the best high performance sport services and academic opportunities that this country has to offer.” Sharmin Naidoo, Head of Cricket – Wits University.
Name of Author: Lions Cricket
Lions Cricket aims to foster a deep passion for cricket by advancing the sport through high-quality teams, nurturing club and school cricket, and providing a premier stadium experience. The organization also seeks to use cricket to drive inclusive and sustainable economic, social, and environmental change.