Allianz title sponsor of Mercantile Indoor Cricket 2013

Allianz Lanka reiterated its commitment to continue supporting sports in Sri Lanka by hosting the Mercantile Indoor Cricket 2013 championships as title sponsor.

The Allianz Mercantile Indoor Cricket Open 2013 will take place at the Austasia Sports Complex in Thalawathugoda. This year, 16 mercantile sector teams will compete in the event.

The Allianz Mercantile Indoor Cricket Open 2013 is organised by the Ceylon Indoor Cricket Association (CICA) and the Indoor Cricket Management.

Now in its 12th year, Mercantile Indoor Cricket has, over the years, been the gateway for selections to the National indoor cricket team. This year’s extensive tour itinerary of the national team is expected to add impetus to the keen competition among the players.

“Allianz has a proven record of supporting sports both locally as well as globally. Indoor cricket has tremendous growth potential in Sri Lanka but suffers from a lack of infrastructure and awareness. We believe that by committing to sponsor the Allianz Mercantile Indoor Cricket Open 2013 championships, we will open doors for more newcomers to join the National squad,” said Assistant Allianz Lanka General Manager – Market Development and Branding, Saliya Weerakoon.

CICA Head of Technical, Hiran De Mel said: “We are excited to have Allianz on board as our title sponsor. It was a fine gesture indeed from the global insurance giant to come forward to sponsor this tournament at short notice. Indoor cricket in Sri Lanka has come a long way since it first began. We trust this partnership with Allianz will be a stepping stone to a solid relationship into the future and that Allianz will continue to help us build the game to world class standards.”

Allianz is a global sponsor of the Paralympics, Formula One racing and football. Allianz Lanka, the insurer’s local arm has, since inception, provided support to sports through the sponsorship of individual sportsmen and women as well as teams, schools and events. Allianz has sponsored school cricket around the country, financed overseas tours for high performing athletes and most recently, provided young footballers with the opportunity to participate in a global football camp in Germany.

All Allianz Mercantile Indoor Cricket 2013 matches will be played at the Austasia Sports Complex, Thalawathugoda. The grand finale is scheduled to be held on 23 May 2013.