Bollywood actress and IPL Kings XI Punjab co-owner Preity Zinta has changed the name of her team to the Stellenbosch Kings. 

The reason for the change from the original name, the Stellenbosch Monarchs, was to align with her current global strategy.

As the only female owner in the T20 Global League, Zinta is clear about putting her own stamp on the brand.

‘The shield signifies strength and power, the colour red shows passion, and the lion represents the South African fighting spirit,’  said Zinta, speaking at the reveal.

‘This message is for all the women out there – I hope every South African woman supports the Stellenbosch Kings, no matter what part of the country they live in. Girl power!’ she emphasised.

Drakenstein Municipality Councillor Rean Smuts showed his firm support for Zinta’s ownership.

‘The City of Drakenstein is proud to be a host city for the T20 Global League and offer you our full support. This is an amazing opportunity for the region, as well as our country, to be part of a world-class cricket league. It is the perfect opportunity to show the world what we have to offer in terms of tourism.’

‘Preity is analytical, knowledgeable and experienced, being a co-owner in the IPL. She knows what she wants and has the vision to make it all happen, including the financial planning and brand building that goes with owning a team,’ said Haroon Lorgat, chief executive of CSA.

Having recognised the need for Boland Park’s refurbishment, CSA has already invested R32-million to improve the stadium facilities ahead of the tournament kick-off on Friday, 3 November.

‘We thank the Drakenstein Municipality for also contributing significantly to the stadium upgrades in order to provide world-class facilities. As the only ICC accredited stadium in the region, we look forward to hosting the Stellenbosch Kings, as well as fans from all over the world at Boland Park.’

‘With all eight owners in place, it’s now full steam ahead to the League’s kick-off in November. The competition has created excitement and is eagerly awaiting the best cricketers competing for the first T20 Global League title,’ concluded Lorgat.

The Stellenbosch Kings play their first home game on Saturday, 4 November at Boland Park, Paarl at 14:30pm against the Jo’burg Giants.

Photo: Stellenbosch Kings/Twitter