Johannesburg – 30 September 2025:
The three year collaboration between #ThePrideOfJozi and Servest, will see the maintenance and upkeep of 21 cricket fields including weekly facility checks, mowing and edging of pitches; winter treatment of pitches, nets and outfields; fertilization and other such requirements.
These fields are home to 17 cricket clubs, many of which serve communities with limited access to high-quality sports infrastructure.
Lions Cricket CEO, Jono Leaf-Wright, expressed his appreciation for the collaboration, noting: “We are incredibly grateful to Servest for their support. High-quality playing surfaces positively impact performance and participation. For young players in these communities, these improvements create safe, inclusive environments where skills can be developed under the guidance of our caring coaches and administrators. This collaboration represents a real investment in the future of South African cricket.”
Andre Ferreira, Executive Head: Business and Market Development of Servest Landscaping and Turf commented: “This is a wonderful opportunity to support and promote grassroots cricket. Young players, especially those from underprivileged communities, will now have access to well-maintained, world-class playing surfaces. These upgraded facilities will not only improve the quality of play but also inspire and nurture young talent. We are hopeful that some of these players may rise to national or even international levels in the future.”
To ensure the success of the initiative, monthly field assessments and quarterly review meetings will be held, allowing both parties to monitor progress and fulfil their commitments effectively.
“This joint endeavour reflects a strong step forward in bridging the gap between talent and opportunity and highlights how mutually beneficial relationships between the private sector and sport can contribute meaningfully to social development,” noted CEO of Servest Rob de Grooth.
Cricket Services Manager for Lions Cricket, Reuben Mandlazi, says that this partnership will ensure that less disruptions in play will occur;
“All too often, play would be paused due to pitch problems or challenges – and we all know that playing consistently is key in order to improve your game. Lions Cricket is extremely grateful for this partnership – it certainly excites me immensely and I know that the clubs will be thrilled with this announcement.”
The facilities set for this wonderful support in phase 1 include Alexandra Cricket Club (CC); Soweto Pioneers CC; Kagiso CC; Lenasia CC; Orange Farm CC; Ottomans CC; Soweto Pioneers Cricket Club; Dalikay CC; Swaneville CC; Sandton Tigers CC; Azaadville CC; Delfos CC; Azad Swaraj CC; Riverlea CC; and Puntans Hills CC, Western Warriors CC and Midrand Knights CC.