DP World Lions ready to set the gold standard

The new season for the DP World Lions is officially underway and what better way to welcome in the 2026/27 season than under the powerful floodlights of one of Africa’s most loved ovals, The DP World Wanderers Stadium.

Looking ahead to new things, the back-to-back Sports Organisation of the Year launched the Unions ambitious marketing campaign titled The Gold Standard – their declaration that Lions Cricket will continue to always set the benchmark against which others measure themselves.

Opening the innings of Excellence, came the confirmation that Central Gauteng Lions (CGL) successfully retained all major commercial partners and secured key renewals, including long-term commitments that reinforce confidence in the Lions Cricket brand. The Lions’ strength is reflected in the 51 valued commercial partners who continue to walk the journey with the Union into the 2026/27 season. Some exciting new partners include Hollywoodbets; Waltons; Craft Homes; Sneaker Shack; Macron; Global Business Solutions; Afrox and the WDB Trust (Women’s Development Bank Trust).

President of the Central Gauteng Lions Board Ashraf Stemmet commented: “Just as gold underpins the intrinsic value of currency, so too does “The Gold Standard” represent the people who underpin the value and identity of the DP World Lions – our coaches, administrators and players. As the Lions, we will continue to raise the bar, striving for excellence both on and off the field. Our ambition is not simply to compete, but to set a standard that reflects the pride, character and resilience that define this organization.

“As our CEO Jono Leaf-Wright often says, 'Our strength is our weakness'. The Lions are committed to developing and producing Protea players, and while that journey inevitably creates challenges, it also speaks to the strength of our system. We have genuine depth within the Lions pride and we are not afraid to give talented players the opportunity to step forward and make their mark. As a collective, we are ready to embrace the new season with vigor, determination, and belief. We know the journey will demand hard work, resilience, and consistency, but we are united in our purpose and confident in the quality within our ranks.

“Our goal is clear: to uphold The Gold Standard and ensure that, when the season reaches its conclusion, the Lions can proudly celebrate silverware. This season is about setting the benchmark, raising expectations and creating a legacy worthy of the Lions name.

The Gold Standard. One Pride. One Roar”

While not every ambition may translate into silverware, the consistent ability of Lions teams to compete at the highest level remains one of the Union’s greatest strengths. In addition, the Pride’s ability to retain its elite talent is equally significant, with an unprecedented 11 nationally contracted players choosing to remain with the DP World Lions for the 2026/27 season. Over and above these 11, Lions Cricket is proud to have Shabnim Ismail and Quinton de Kock also choosing the DP World Lions as their home.

Initiatives such as the Telkom Talent Acceleration Programme, strong partnerships with schools and a thriving club cricket structure continue to provide a clear and seamless pathway from grassroots cricket to the professional ranks. This is further strengthened by a dedicated network of enthusiastic and qualified officials and administrators who lead by example, supported by a passionate and committed pool of volunteers across every level of the game.

The home of the Pride, The DP World Wanderers Stadium, continued to evolve as a multi-purpose destination, hosting more than 180 non-cricket events during the past year across entertainment, corporate and community categories. The Union also continued strategic investment in digital capability, fan engagement and infrastructure, strengthening the stadium’s position as more than a sporting venue

– but as a hub of connection, innovation and inspiration. The ability to diversify revenue, maximise the value of the stadium and continue investing strategically places the Union in a strong position to pursue future growth.

Fresh, feisty, fearless and wholeheartedly prepared for what lies ahead, Lions Cricket CEO Jono Leaf-Wright said that it’s about striving for excellence in all that you do this season.

“I look forward to witnessing our collective power that will push this Pride to the podium – through the power of impact, influence and inspiration. Lions Cricket is 100% committed to our clubs, schools and the communities we serve and together, let us aim to move into the 2026/27 season with courage, passion and relentless belief, striving to be the very best version of ourselves in every moment, every interaction and every delivery. We can't wait to hear the ROAR of our fans this season, backed wholeheartedly by our incredible partners and stakeholders alike.”

As the Union looks ahead to the 2026/27 season, its ambitions remain high: To compete for honours, develop the next generation of talent, grow the game, strengthen its commercial sustainability and ensure that every member of the Lions family contributes genuine and meaningful impact. Central Gauteng Lions remains steadfast in their mission to advance and transform cricket, guided by its enduring values of excellence, leadership and accountability.

Together with the Board, officials, partners and every stakeholder who walks the journey with Lions Cricket, the Pride will continue to build their legacy that sets the standard: The Gold Standard. The DP World Lions would like to thank all those who choose to prowl the Pride Lands alongside #ThePrideOfJozi and to wish all players, coaches and officials well for the season ahead – what a powerful pack The DP World Lions has become.