Lions Cricket partners with Sportsnection to launch historic trading card set The Pride steps into the fast-growing global sports collectibles market

Lions Cricket is proud to announce an exciting new partnership with Sportsnection, marking a bold step into the rapidly expanding global sports collectibles market.

Through this collaboration, Lions Cricket and Sportsnection will develop an official trading card collection designed to engage a new generation of fans while contributing to the growth of cricket’s collector culture. The set will feature both the DP World Lions men’s and women’s teams, including players and head coaches from the 2025/26 and 2026/27 seasons - positioning it as a groundbreaking initiative within South African cricket.

The South African Cricketers Association (SACA) and their CEO, Andrew Breetzke has fully supported and endorsed the partnership between Lions Cricket and Sportsnection, which is much appreciated as mentioned by Lions Cricket CEO Jono Leaf-Wright when highlighting the significance of the partnership: “The global sports collectibles market continues to grow across the professional sports landscape, with cricket still emerging compared to other major codes. We understand and acknowledge the deep passion for cricket in South Africa and are confident that fans across the country - and beyond - will embrace this exciting product, whether for trading or as treasured keepsakes. Having SACA behind us every step of the way is extremely powerful and we look forward to making magic and bringing this all to life. Watch this space!”

The DP World Lions trading cards will be launched before the new season, available at the DP World Wanderers Stadium, online via the Lions Cricket website, and through Sportsnection’s digital platforms. Packs will include a variety of trading cards, with collectors also able to purchase boxes containing six packs. The full set is expected to comprise of over 40 individual cards across the two featured seasons.

Edward Gold, Chief Operating Officer at Sportsnection, shared his enthusiasm: “Sportsnection is equally thrilled to partner with Lions Cricket and the DP World Lions teams to create a premium trading card product for this historic and widely supported Pride of Jozi franchise - and, of course, for the passionate cricket fans of South Africa.”

Based in the United States, Sportsnection has built a strong reputation in the trading card industry, producing premium cricket collectibles, including standard and autographed editions featuring legendary Cricket All-Stars, national teams, and professional leagues.

Lions Cricket is tremendously proud to lead the charge in this first-of-its-kind initiative in South African cricket, treating the fanatical Lions fans to a feast of #ThePrideOfJozi cricket collectibles.

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Meanwhile, Lions Cricket and Cricket South Africa (CSA) have released statements regarding Beyers Swanepoel, who left the field before the conclusion of the CSA 1-Day Cup final against the Titans on Sunday after completing his bowling spell, with seven overs remaining in the match for the UK to play County cricket.

At the time of departure, no notification or explanation was provided to the on‑field umpires or match officials and neither was a No Obligation Certificate (NOC) requested from CSA nor any authorization obtained from Lions Cricket as per protocol.

As a result, match officials acted in accordance with the relevant playing conditions and CSA and Lions initiated disciplinary processes.

The incident was formally reported by the Match Referee and has been referred to Cricket South Africa’s disciplinary and governance structures for consideration in line with CSA regulations and the applicable Code of Conduct.

CSA stresses that no assumptions or conclusions will be made prior to the completion of this process.

Cricket South Africa reaffirms that strict adherence to playing conditions, operational protocols and professional communication standards is non‑negotiable, particularly in showpiece fixtures such as domestic finals.

These standards are fundamental to preserving fairness, transparency and the credibility of the game for players, match officials, teams, broadcasters, sponsors and supporters.

CSA remains committed to upholding the highest standards of conduct and governance and to applying its rules consistently in the best interests of the game and all its stakeholders.

Lions Cricket CEO Jono Leaf-Wright has confirmed that a formal disciplinary process is underway and has called for patience and respect during this time.

"We take matters of this nature very seriously, as we aim to develop not only exceptional players on the field but individuals of strong character off it.

"Such behaviour does not align with our values. The Pride's culture is built on excellence, underpinned by passion, professionalism and a clear understanding that representing the team is a privilege," he said.

The Lions, CSA and the South African Cricketers' Association (SACA) are working closely to bring this matter to a resolution.