MUMBAI: Hosts New Zealand Cricket (NZC) have announced Ebix Inc., a supplier of on-demand software and e-commerce services, as ‘Powered By’ sponsor for India’s upcoming six-week tour of the island nation.
India will be playing 5 T20I’s, 3 ODIs and 2 Tests in New Zealand during the tour that kicks off Friday.
With Noida-based water-purifier brand Kent RO having struck a title rights deal with NZC for the T20 series scheduled to begin this Friday and the ODI and Test trophies sponsored by Indian whisky brand Royal Stag, this is the first time that all the major sponsors for an Indian cricket tour are from India, Hindustan Times reports.
Virat Kohli-led India will play Kane Williamson-led New Zealand between January 24 and March 4 on their tour of New Zealand. Ebix will have a strong presence on ground across venues during all the three series.
“It’s been an exciting home season for the Black Caps and with teams now looking forward to the T20 World Cup later this year, the five Match T20 Series with India is not only an ideal preparation for our squad but also a tremendous opportunity for fans to enjoy high-quality T20 Cricket. We are also looking forward to the One Day and Test sides competing for supremacy to cap off an incredible home season for us where in England, India and Australia have toured our shores. We want to thank the series partners that recognize the global nature of the game and support cricket across boundaries,” said a New Zealand Cricket spokesperson.
Ebix chairman and CEO Robin Raina said: “We are delighted to be among the sponsors for the New Zealand-India series. Cricket in India has been the best marketing vehicle for brands. The series becomes more significant when the cricketing power house that Team India is scheduled to play against the World Cup finalists. The tie-up with New Zealand is also a reflection of our commitment for sports.”
Raina added: “When Virat Kohli and Kane Williams lead two international teams out in the middle, cricket will invoke its ultimate fever. Ebix Group has worked hard to grow up as a reliable brand. We have with us the commitment of millions of our committed users across the world. As we are aggressively expanding to new territories and new client base, we are glad to be associated with the Black Caps and New Zealand Cricket as sort of marketing associates in the growth.”
India will start their New Zealand tour with the first T20 International on 24th January in Auckland.
