The Otago Volts have received a hefty boost before their big trip to India for the Champions League.
They have inked a deal with Otago Polytechnic for the global tournament starting on September 17.
The tertiary institution has made a ''substantial contribution'' towards the trip, and the Volts will be branded with its logo.
''We are thrilled to have Otago Polytechnic's backing,'' Otago Cricket Association chief executive Ross Dykes said.
''To have an Otago-based institution supporting the Volts at an internationally renowned competition will be a reminder of where we come from and the support we have back home.''
Otago Polytechnic communications director Mike Waddell is looking forward to seeing what educational opportunities come from the investment.
''Education is one of the most dynamic sectors in India,'' Waddell said.
''There are numerous opportunities for the polytechnic to collaborate with India in higher education and research, and provide excellent vocational education and training for Indian students here in New Zealand.''
As part of the partnership, Otago Polytechnic hopes to establish a long-term relationship with Otago cricket and collaborate on educational initiatives.
''This is not just about cricket,'' Waddell said.
''We see the potential for a long-term relationship based on preparing professional athletes for life after cricket through tertiary education.''
Dykes said Otago cricket was investigating programmes run through Capable NZ, a subsidiary of Otago Polytechnic which provided flexible learning. It would like to consider a programme which helped transition professional athletes into higher education.
''We want to demonstrate that cricket can be a useful vehicle into education,'' Dykes said.
