EASY BUY, CENTURY’S E50K FOR CRICKET SQUAD

MANZINI – Eswatini’s national cricket team received a warm send-off as they prepare for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup qualifiers in Nigeria.
The national team will be participating in the International Cricket Council (ICC) Men’s T20 World Cup Sub-Regional Africa Qualifiers C, scheduled to take place from November 23 to 28, 2024. During the farewell function, it was revealed that Easy Buy and Century Fashions had sponsored the national team with E50 000. Present at the farewell was the Honourable Minister of Sports, Culture and Youth Affairs, Bongani Nzima. Nzima conveyed to the travelling team that they stood as ambassadors of the nation, entrusted with the noble duty of carrying the spirit of Eswatini to the world. “You are not only cricketers; you are symbols of our nation’s hopes and dreams, bearers of our heritage, and models of the Eswatini spirit of unity, resilience and determination,” Nzima said.

He urged the players to take to the field with all their heart, playing not just for them but for all emaSwati who believe in them. The minister stated that their objective is clear: To achieve a podium finish in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup Sub-Regional Africa Qualifier C. He emphasised that this is not merely an aspiration; it was a crucial step in their journey towards the Africa final and ultimately the prestigious World Cup. “Know that your efforts on the field will inspire countless young people back home who dream of following in your footsteps in the future,” he said. Nzima remarked that as representatives of Eswatini, they have  a unique opportunity to establish friendly relations with other participating nations. He noted that the tournament is not only a competitive stage but also a chance for cultural exchange and personal growth.

Development

He encouraged the team to embrace the experience fully, learn from their peers and share their beautiful culture with the world. He highlighted that the lessons and friendships gained on this journey will contribute to the broader development of cricket in Eswatini while enriching the community for years to come. Additionally, he expressed his deepest gratitude to Century Fashion and Easy Buy Eswatini for their invaluable support. Meanwhile, Century Fashions Managing Director Asraful ‘Mansur’ Chowdhury expressed how honoured he is to be part of the send-off function. “As the Managing Director of Century Fashions, it brings me immense joy to be part of this momentous occasion, especially alongside our co-sponsors, Easy Buy Eswatini,” Mansur said.

He highlighted that for over three decades, their businesses had proudly called Eswatini home. Throughout their journey in this beautiful Kingdom, they have witnessed incredible growth and resilience not only in their business but also in the communities that have embraced them. They emphasised that their belief in social building has always been at the heart of everything they do and that supporting various sporting codes has been central to their community engagements.

Passion

Mansur stated that they are part of the function because of their shared passion for sport and their desire to see cricket reach new heights in Eswatini. He noted that cricket is a game of strategy, skill and team spirit, qualities that resonate with their values as a company. On the other hand, Eswatini Cricket Association President Saif Ullah expressed his gratitude for having the minister attend the farewell function while giving the team wings. “We want to see you guys bring back the trophy,” said Ullah. He further emphasised that the players should keep in mind from the moment they depart that the trophy must be won and brought back to the kingdom. Also present at the function was Eswatini Sport and Recreation Council Chief Executive Officer Darius Dlomo, who also shared wisdom and encouraged the men’s team to perform exceptionally as well as praised their uniforms.

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