BULAWAYO - Zimbabwean cricket has received a shot in the arm with the launch of a grassroots development programme by Old Mutual.

 The sponsorship package is worth $150 000 and will cover cricket development programmes from the Under-11 to Under-19 age-groups.

Speaking at a launch ceremony at Milton High School in Bulawayo yesterday, Old Mutual Group chief executive Jonas Mushosho, said the sponsorship package will cover kit and equipment, refurbishment of facilities, coach education and capacity building.

 "Initially 10 pitches will be covered in the refurbishment programme, while 80 schools will be given equipment. These schools are drawn from all five franchises and will cover both low and high density areas," Mushosho said.

 Speaking on behalf of all the five franchises, Matabeleland Tuskers' Delma Lupepe thanked Old Mutual for leading the corporate world in sponsoring cricket.

 He said: "They (Old Mutual) have put in a substantial amount to bring the game to the grassroots and it is now up to us to identify talent and bring it to the forefront."

 The value of the sponsorship deal will be determined annually, based on the specific development programmes of a particular year. -  Sakheleni Nxumalo