LUGOGO, MARCH 27: Cricket Uganda has received a fresh consignment of playing equipment and kits from Bankstown District Cricket Club (BDCC) in Australia, reinforcing a partnership that has played a pivotal role in the sport’s development over the past two decades.
The container, received at Lugogo Cricket Oval, includes essential playing gear and training equipment that will directly support both elite and grassroots cricket programmes across the country.
A Partnership Rooted in 2004
This enduring collaboration traces back to 2004, following Uganda’s participation at the ICC U-19 World Cup in Bangladesh. It was during this tournament that Ugandan officials connected with Brian Freedman, then manager of Australia’s U-19 team.
Recognising the equipment challenges faced by Ugandan players – many of whom relied on improvised gear – Freedman mobilised support from BDCC, laying the foundation for a long-term partnership.
From Equipment to Infrastructure
What began with basic kit donations – bats, balls, pads and protective gear – has since grown into a broader support system.
Over the years, BDCC has contributed critical infrastructure, including turf rollers and wicket covers, helping Uganda improve playing conditions and align closer to international standards.
This sustained support has significantly elevated training quality and competitiveness within Ugandan cricket.
Boost for Development Pathways
Cricket Uganda Chairman Jackson Kavuma hailed the partnership as transformative: “This 20-year-old relationship is a testament to trust, shared values, and commitment. Bankstown has been central to our growth, and we are confident this collaboration will continue to drive the game forward.”
Cricket Uganda Development Manager Davis Turinawe emphasised the immediate impact: “This equipment will strengthen our development programmes, improve safety, and ensure players at all levels can train and compete with confidence.”
New Balance Joins the Initiative
Cricket Uganda also welcomes the addition of New Balance (NB) as a key contributor in 2026, with the global sportswear brand providing brand-new equipment that has further boosted the value of this shipment.
The involvement of New Balance (NB) signals growing international confidence in Uganda’s cricket pathway and is expected to deepen in the coming years.
Sustaining the Momentum
The latest delivery underscores the continued impact of collaboration between stakeholders in Uganda and Australia. What started as a response to immediate equipment shortages has evolved into a structured, long-term partnership.
With sustained support from BDCC and new backing from New Balance, Cricket Uganda is well-positioned to strengthen its systems further, nurture emerging talent, and raise the standard of the game nationwide.
THE BREAKDOWN
Bankstown District Cricket Club (BDCC)
Core Contribution
Long-term equipment supply (bats, balls, pads, gloves, helmets)
Infrastructure support (turf rollers, wicket covers)
Coaching and development materials
Practical Impact
Growth: Enables schools and academies to access basic playing gear
Player safety: Proper protective equipment reduces injury risk
Performance improvement: Standardised gear improves skill development
Facility upgrade: Better pitches and training environments
Cost relief: Reduce burden on players, schools, clubs & national teams
Strategic Value
Sustained 20-year-plus development pipeline support
Bridges the gap between Uganda and established cricket systems
New Balance
Core Contribution (2026 Onwards)
Provision of brand-new, modern cricket equipment and kit
Practical Impact
Quality upgrade: Access to High-Performance, international-standard gear
Player confidence: Athletes feel better equipped at the elite level
Brand visibility: Raises the profile of Ugandan cricket globally
Elite preparation: Better gear for national teams and HP pathways
Strategic Value
Signals growing global confidence in Uganda Cricket
Opens doors for future commercial partnerships
Aligns Uganda with a recognised global sports brand
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