The Suncoast Casino and Entertainment World has come to the party with a big splash as far as the KwaZulu-Natal Dolphins cricket union is concerned.
They are to fund cricket development in the province with an initial donation of R200 000 in the first year of a planned three-year agreement.
This was announced at a media briefing at the Durban Entertainment Centre on Monday evening.
Prior to this, relationships between the Sahara Stadium (Kingsmead) hierarchy and the casino had been on a casual basis.
Suncoast executive director Mike Dowsley indicated that through this contribution it hopes to take the existing relationship to a higher level.
The aim is to make an impact in areas where communities can really benefit. He highlighted Chatsworth, Phoenix and Umlazi as falling into this category.
One of the aims will be to help find and encourage professional coaches from the ranks of the previously disadvantaged.
From the KwaZulu-Natal Cricket Union point of view, the tie-up between the casino and the union provides opportunities for joint promotions both at the stadium and at the complex. — Sapa