Richfield And Lions Cricket Expand Education Partnership To Support Players On And Off The Field

The partnership goes beyond sponsorship. It focuses on building a supportive framework for athletes, ensuring that they are equipped for future opportunities. Educational programmes are offered across the Lions Cricket ecosystem, including the DP World Lions, with scholarships for distance learning degree qualifications accessible to professionals and emerging players in both the Professional men’s and women’s teams.

Adam Kelly, group chief commercial officer at Richfield, the leading private tertiary institution in South Africa for business and IT degrees, says that they are proud to continue supporting Lions Cricket. “Our goal is to help players and staff develop beyond the boundary. Education equips them with skills and knowledge they can carry into their future careers and personal lives. For us, seeing athletes commit to learning as seriously as they commit to cricket is inspiring, and it sets a strong example for all young Africans looking to further their post-Matric education.”

Education remains a key focus for Lions Cricket. CEO Jono Leaf-Wright explains: “This partnership ensures that every single individual within our Pride has the opportunity grow personally and professionally. At Lions Cricket, we’ve always pushed not only to produce great players on the field, but even better people off it. This partnership speaks exactly to that key goal, with our players and staff being encouraged to pursue tertiary qualifications while still making the most of their cricket careers. We want them to be well-rounded individuals who are prepared for whatever comes next, on or off the field.”

In 2025, the partnership expanded to include women players. Three young, Lions Cricket ladies enrolled in Bachelor of Business Administration programmes at Richfield, marking the first intake for female players under this partnership.

The partnership also highlights the broader role sport can play in personal development. By encouraging education alongside athletic training, Richfield and Lions Cricket are investing in the long-term success of the players. This helps them prepare for working-world careers while also building skills that enhance decision-making, leadership, and problem-solving on the field.

Leaf-Wright says that Lions Cricket sees the renewed partnership as a way to continue shaping strong, capable individuals: “Our ambition has always been to bring out the best in every person within our ecosystem. Education equips our people for future opportunities and fosters a culture where learning is as valued as winning.”

With this renewed commitment, Richfield and Lions Cricket continue to demonstrate how sport and education go hand in hand, empowering players to a life beyond the boundary ropes.