zimcricketnews.com

CBZ Bank Limited has increased its support of cricket in Zimbabwe and signed on as the title sponsor of this year's annual cricket awards. The awards will be known as the 2010 CBZ Bank Cricket Awards which will be held at an exclusive venue in Harare on the third of September.

"Our relationship with CBZ Bank was solidified this April when they took on the sponsorship of the men's one day international (ODI) team; it is both fitting and commendable that they have decided to complement this important
role by assisting us in acknowledging all the outstanding performers of the 2009/2010 season. We are honoured to have them on board," said Zimbabwe Cricket's managing director, Mr. Ozias Bvute.

CBZ Bank Limited chief executive officer, Dr John Mangudya echoed these sentiments adding; "These are professional sportsmen and women and like every profession, it is critical that outstanding performance is recognized and celebrated. We wish all the nominated candidates the best of luck".

The CBZ Bank Cricket Awards were introduced to pay special tribute to the leading cricketers of the day and honor those who have played a significant role in administering and developing the sport in Zimbabwe. Categories include among others the coveted Cricketer of the Year, Female Cricketer of the Year, Rookie of the Year and Coach of the Year awards.

Last year's awards were held in Bulawayo on the eve of the One Day International series against Bangladesh. The awards were also used as a platform to launch the new franchises to the greater cricketing community.

The 2008/2009 awards were graced by among others dignitaries, the Minister of Tourism and the Hospitality Industry, Honourable Engineer Walter Muzembi who handed over the principal award of Cricketer of the Year to Prosper Utseya. This award stretches beyond the scope of distinctive performances on the field and a suitable candidate must among an excess of other qualities, display excellence as an ambassador for the game of cricket in Zimbabwe.

Also defending their titles this year are 2008/2009 Bowler of the Year Raymond Price and 2008/2009 Batsman of the Year Hamilton Masakadza. The 2009/10 season under the new franchise system brought about the blossoming
of many new players making this year's accolades all the more coveted.
[Source: ZC]