South African board changes its name

The United Cricket Board of South Africa has changed its name to Cricket South Africa.

"Market research has shown that our stakeholders have been confused by the use of the two names, United Cricket Board of South Africa and Cricket South Africa (Pty) Ltd," Gerald Majola, the board's CEO, explained. "The research also showed a positive response to the Cricket South Africa logo. We believe the name change will give us the opportunity to capitalise on a fresh, innovative brand for South African cricket."

He continued: "It will also mean doing away with costly duplication and confusion among the media, public and other stakeholders. We have unanimously decided to call the mother body, Cricket South Africa, and the professional wing will remain as Cricket South Africa (Pty) Ltd. Cricket South Africa will incorporate amateur cricket and will remain a voluntary association".

Majola stressed that the name change did not mean less focus on unity in cricket. "The continued unification of South African cricket remains a major pillar of our vision and our constitution."

The news means that South Africa have followed three other main boards - Australia, Zimbabwe and Kenya - in changing their names to a simpler form. The Australian Cricket Board became Cricket Australia, the Zimbabwe Cricket Association became Zimbabwe Cricket, while the Kenyan Cricket Association became Cricket Kenya.

There was also good news about the board's finances, as it reported an operating profit of R26.1 million.