From football to cricket: Sportswear brand OTB Looks diversifies, partners with Cricket Ekhaya-Ekasi

HARARE – South Africa-based sportswear brand On The Ball (OTB) Looks has expanded beyond its traditional football partnerships, venturing into cricket through a new five year partnership with Cricket Ekhaya-Ekasi.

The deal, announced on Tuesday, will see OTB Looks supplying playing kits for the Ekhaya-Ekasi initiative, which was launched in 2024 with the goal of promoting cricket in underprivileged communities.

The initiative is affiliated with Zimbabwe Cricket.

Speaking at the unveiling ceremony held in Harare, OTB Looks CEO Peter Chiveso said: “We are known for working with football clubs, but this time we are diversifying into cricket.

“We are also planning to explore partnerships in other sporting disciplines.

“By partnering with Ekhaya-Ekasi, we aim to expand opportunities for young cricketers in Zimbabwe. We are excited to be part of this journey and to help promote cricket in rural areas.”

Currently, OTB Looks supplies kits for Castle Lager Premier Soccer League clubs, including reigning champions Simba Bhora and Manica Diamonds.

In recent years, the brand also provided kits, replicas and travel gear for local football giants Dynamos and Highlanders.

Also speaking at the event, Cricket Ekhaya-Ekasi Director of Development, Dumisani Mankunzini, emphasised the initiative’s grassroots mission:

“We want every child in Zimbabwe to know cricket, just as they know football. We want them to become familiar with the cricket ball and bat, and to have the opportunity to develop their skills in a sport that can open doors to greater opportunities.”

Cricket Ekhaya-Ekasi aims to nurture world-class cricket administrators, coaches and players, particularly from rural communities with the ultimate goal of representing Zimbabwe on the international stage.