The Cape Town-based team in Cricket South Africa’s new T20 league will be called MI Cape Town.
MI Cape Town are owned by Reliance Industries Limited, who also own the Mumbai Indians in the Indian Premier League.
“It gives me great pleasure to welcome MI Cape Town. MI goes beyond cricket. It embodies the ability to dream, be fearless and foster a positive attitude in life,” said Reliance Industries Limited director Nita M. Ambani.
“I am sure MI Cape Town will embrace the same ethos and take MI’s global cricket legacy to even greater heights.”
30-plus more overseas players join new CSA league
Meanwhile, commissioner Graeme Smith has confirmed 30-plus players from abroad have registered for the league. These include England’s Liam Livingstone and Moeen Ali.
The six franchises will be allowed to sign five players prior to the auction. Squads will comprise 17 players.
“This is an important milestone for the league,” said Smith. “Having world-class South African players playing with some of best cricketers around the world makes for some outstanding cricket.
“I’m mostly excited for the young and upcoming talent in our cricket pipeline. They will get to rub shoulders with some experienced and talented players which will no doubt inspire and help them to raise their own game.
“The league’s priority is to help strengthen our domestic cricket structures while putting on an exciting and entertaining cricketing showpiece.
“Our player regulations have been thoughtfully drafted in consultation with the franchises and everyone is ready to get going. We’re looking forward to seeing how the teams match up and how the franchises will build their squads.
“We are delighted with the interest from the player community and are onboarding players with the support from the cricket boards. I’m looking forward to welcoming players from all regions across the cricketing world.”