Maldives Cricket holds annual marketing dinner

The Cricket Control Board of Maldives (CCBM) held its annual Cricket Marketing Dinner at the Nasandhura Hotel to publicize its 2008 events and various sponsorship packages offered to business on 30 October 2007. Amongst the guests were Special Advisor to the President, Hon. Umar Zahir, Bangladesh High Commissioner to the Maldives, Mr. Mijarul Quayes, and ACC Development Officer, Mr. Rumesh Ratnayake. Over 80 invited guests attended the dinner, they included managing directors and marketing officials of prominent companies, players and club officials attended the dinner. The event was broadcast live in DhiFM 95.2, one of Maldives leading private radio stations.

Speaking at the function, Mr. Rumesh Ratnayke praised CCBM’s marketing strategies and said that other ACC countries can learn lessons from CCBM marketing and promotional events. CCBM sponsor package, “Team – up with Maldives Cricket” was launched at the function. CCBM Vice Chairman, Ahmed Hassan Didi, presented the package and noted with appreciation that sponsorship for 9 out of 11 tournaments earmarked for 2008 has already been finalized. He said that the target of CCBM was to finalise sponsorship as early as possible and that this year has been an exceptional year in that regard.

CCBM achieved another first for a sports association in the country with the signing of an MoU with DhiFM 95.2, as Maldive Cricket’s Official Radio Partner for 2008. Under the agreement DhiFM 95.2 will provide radio coverage for CCBM tournaments and events, including live broadcasts of some matches. One of the main challenges faced by CCBM in its development efforts is popularizing the game throughout the Maldives. This partnership is a key tool in overcoming this as DhiFM 95.2 has a wide coverage which can be used to promote cricket through out the country. Mohamed Saleem, Director of DhiFM 95.2 noted that it was a privilege to sign an MoU with one of the most mature sports body in the country and that they will help to take cricket to a new height in a mutually beneficial partnership.

At the function, Vice Chairman, Mr. Hassan Didi presented special mementoes to Dhiraagu and Maldive Gas for their long term association with Maldives Cricket. Speaking after the presentation, Dhiraagu and Maldives Gas representatives noted that CCBM has delivered according to their expectation and that they will continue to be associated with Maldives Cricket.

The function concluded with the presentation of the junior team for the ACC Under 15 tournament and a video presentation appreciating the contribution of sponsors in 2007. The evenings main attraction was a sumptuous buffet which included a number of items named after famous cricketers.