Origin signs with Cricket Australia, backing national teams and grassroots clubs

Origin has signed a three-year platinum partnership with Cricket Australia, joining the national sport just weeks before the summer schedule ramps up. The deal covers the men’s and women’s national teams, the Big Bash League and the Women’s Big Bash League, and will see Origin appear on the playing shirt sleeves for all home internationals.

The energy retailer will also fund upgrades for community clubs through an annual commitment to the Australian Cricket Infrastructure Fund. The investment will support solar, battery and energy management installations aimed at reducing energy bills for local organisations.

Origin chief executive Frank Calabria said: “We’re thrilled to be partnering with Cricket Australia and supporting one of Australia’s most-loved sports at all levels of the game.

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“This partnership brings two leading Australian organisations together who are both part of Australia’s story and deeply connected to communities across the country.

“We’re looking forward to supporting our men’s and women’s national teams, the family-friendly Big Bash Leagues, and sharing our expertise in energy in a way that delivers meaningful benefits to grassroots clubs, participants and fans.

“Origin’s ambition is to lead the energy transition through cleaner energy and customer solutions – and help all Australians benefit from it. An important part of our cricket partnership will see us support local clubs with energy solutions including solar, batteries and energy management to help them reduce energy costs, emissions and become more sustainable.

“It’s an exciting summer to be joining the Australian cricket family and we’re looking forward to making our cricket debut.”

The partnership follows last week’s launch of Power Up Play, a joint initiative with Cricket for Climate and Blacktown City Council to deliver renewable energy upgrades for local clubs.

Cricket Australia CEO Todd Greenberg said: “We’re delighted to partner with Origin for the next three years and that they will be key supporters of our national teams and the Big Bash Leagues.

“We’re particularly pleased Origin’s involvement with the game will extend to community cricket with their contribution to the Australian Cricket Infrastructure Fund providing energy solutions and potential savings for local clubs.

“Origin joins Australia’s national sport during the biggest international season in our history and their commitment to cricket will help us grow the game further.

“We share Origin’s passion for innovation, and we support Origin’s ambition to lead the way in providing cleaner energy and giving the very best experiences to its customers.”

Pat Cummins said the deal aligns with Cricket for Climate’s mission to support clubs with renewable infrastructure, while Australian player Phoebe Litchfield welcomed Origin’s backing of the women’s national team and the WBBL.