Capricorn extends partnership as Wittmann takes over captaincy

Capricorn Group, along with Capricorn Asset Management and Capricorn Private Wealth, has officially announced the extension of their partnership with Cricket Namibia, which began in 2021.

This renewed sponsorship agreement underscores Capricorn Group's unwavering support for Namibia's national women's cricket team, the Capricorn Eagles, and their ongoing commitment to the development of girls' and women's cricket in the country.

Yesterday, Marlize Horn, Capricorn Group’s Executive: Brand and Corporate Affairs, revealed that the 2024 sponsorship would amount to N$300 000 for the Capricorn Eagles.

This announcement follows the commitment announced in June by Capricorn Group to also sponsor the Under-19 Capricorn Eagles team.

Beyond financial support, Capricorn Group also provides the players with gear, equipment, and other in-kind assistance.

The Capricorn Eagles will be hosting the United Arab Emirates and Zimbabwe in a triangular tournament in Windhoek during September, before the senior national women’s team have a scheduled tour to Hong Kong in December.

Before that, the junior team is preparing for the ICC Under-19 Women’s T20 World Cup qualifier in Rwanda’s capital Kigali from 19 August to 3 September. A total of 14 nations are expected to compete for just one qualifying spot to the 2025 showpiece to be hosted by Malaysia and Thailand.

Suné Wittmann was yesterday revealed as the captain of the Capricorn Eagles. The 29-year-old all-rounder will take over the leadership role from the veteran Irené van Zyl.

Wittmann expressed gratitude, saying, “We, as the Capricorn Eagles, promise to keep climbing and working our way up the ranks. Thank you, Capricorn Group, for taking a gamble on a few girls and women with dreams bigger than themselves."

Cricket Namibia's strategic vision for women's cricket in the country includes professionalizing the women’s game to support players, while expanding junior structures and participation through organized girls’ cricket festivals and school leagues.

Marlize Horn said: “We are immensely proud of the remarkable strides achieved by the Capricorn Eagles under the guidance of Cricket Namibia. The growth and development we've witnessed are a testament to strong leadership and strategic resource allocation.

“We remain dedicated to our community, as we believe that the investments we make today will yield positive outcomes for Namibian girls and women in the future.”

Johan Muller, CEO of Cricket Namibia, emphasized the importance of the partnership. “It is a great pleasure to have an organization like Capricorn Group on board as an official partner of Cricket Namibia.

“In 2021, Capricorn Group embraced the concept of promoting women's cricket in Namibia. This partnership is another positive step in the continued growth and development of the Capricorn Eagles. The renewal of the contract is a testament to Capricorn Group's commitment to promoting women's sports and cricket in our country."

With this renewed support, the future of women's cricket in Namibia looks brighter than ever, as the role players continue to foster the development of talented female athletes and expand opportunities for young girls across the nation.