DEC sponsors Black Caps

DEC joins The National Bank of New Zealand as marquee sponsors of NZC, although the bank will continue its association with the National Bank Series, in which the Black Caps play against international teams on their home grounds.

Announcing the signing of the sponsorship deal in Dubai today, DEC Managing Director Dheeraj Wadhwan said:

"We at DEC see tremendous benefits in being associated with such an exciting and high profile cricket team like the Black Caps, who have the reputation of being scrappers who make the most of their abilities. Cricket is witnessing a boom over the past few years and the geographic spread of the sport fits in nicely with our growth plans. Our group is in the process of launching several exclusive luxury projects in Dubai and Abu Dhabi in association with some world renowned fashion houses and will unveil more such high-end projects in the United Kingdom, Australia and New Zealand next year. With India touring New Zealand early next year, we expect the matches to generate tremendous media exposure throughout India, the Middle East, Australia and New Zealand."

The Indian cricket team will be playing 19 days of cricket in a 33-day tour which begins in the first week of March 2009 during which five one-day internationals, one T20 match and two Tests are scheduled. India last went to New Zealand six years ago, when they lost the Test series 2-0 and the one-day series 5-2, making for an exciting confrontation this time around. Currently fourth in the ICC ODI rankings, the Black Caps are led by Daniel Vettori, an orthodox slow left arm spin bowler who heads the ICC ODI bowling rankings.

Welcoming the new sponsor from Dubai, NZC CEO Justin Vaughan said the new deal gives New Zealand the benefits of an international sponsor, while allowing The National Bank to retain its connection with professional and domestic cricket though its sponsorship of the Series and its investments in the grass-roots and community elements of the game in the country.

Meanwhile, NZC has unveiled its new-look Canterbury of New Zealand wardrobe prominently bearing the DEC name and logo, which the Black Caps will wear from the 2008-09 summer season. The ODI kit bears little resemblance to its predecessor, except for the predominantly black playing strip, while the Test side will have the same wardrobe in cream. Developed after two years of research, the lightweight, slim fit, playing gear is designed to draw perspiration from the body so it can evaporate.

DEC is a joint venture between Dheeraj Constructions, India and East Coast LLC, Dubai. Backed by six decades of group experience, the company currently has 23 projects worth $1.7bn in the UAE, including those in the most prestigious Dubai locations like Dubai Marina, Business Bay, Culture Village and Jumeirah Village. Winner of the 'Developer's Commitment to Efficient Buildings' award at the inaugural Facilities Management Middle East Awards 2008 organised by ITP Business Publishing, Dubai, DEC believes in enhancing value for clients by providing real estate assets that enrich the way they work, live and play.

Dheeraj Constructions India is part of the well known Wadhwan Group which has interests in diverse sectors like housing finance, real estate, food and beverages, hospitality and education.