Vodafone UK pulls out of England cricket sponsorship deal
 

Vodafone UK is to pull out of its sponsorship contract with the England and Wales Cricket Board. The decision brings to an end a relationship which has lasted since 1996 and puts the England team on the back foot as they begin the search for a replacement sponsor during a period of deep financial uncertainty.

The news was announced earlier this morning in the following joint statement: "Following a highly successful 12 year partnership, Vodafone UK and the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) today announce that the current sponsorship agreement between Vodafone and the ECB will not be renewed. Platform "The current four year sponsorship agreement will conclude at the end of the Winter Tour of South Africa in January 2010. "Ian Shepherd, Consumer Director, Vodafone UK, commented: 'We've enjoyed a successful relationship with the ECB and the England Team over the last 12 years and the sponsorship has provided us with a platform to build the Vodafone brand and add value to our customers. "'We are delighted to have been part of this dynamic and evolving sport. The England Team have been excellent brand ambassadors and we thank them for their ongoing support.   "'As part of an ongoing strategic review of our sponsorship portfolio, we have decided not to renew this sponsorship agreement. We remain fully committed to the successful conclusion of the sponsorship at the end of the Winter Tour of South Africa and we look forward to an exciting summer ahead with the Ashes. "'We are also working with the ECB to develop a legacy programme at grass roots level which builds on the long term investment we have made in the success of cricket across England and Wales'". Opportunity "John Perera, ECB Commercial Director, added: 'ECB and Vodafone have enjoyed some notable achievements, both on and off the pitch during this long and successful relationship. "'We fully respect their decision and look forward to working with Vodafone over the next twelve months, in what promises to be the start of another exciting and momentous chapter for the England Cricket Team. This however provides a wonderful opportunity for a new partner to come in to English cricket'".