Australian Big Bash League cricket franchise the Melbourne Stars has named telecommunications firm Optus as its new principal partner.
The announcement comes just a day after the Stars revealed that electronics retailer Dick Smith, its previous principal partner, had been forced to sever its ties with the club after entering into administration.
As well as being named the club’s new principal partner, Optus becomes the Stars’ official mobile media partner. The company has agreed a deal covering the remainder of the 2015-16 BBL season, which concludes later this month, as well as the 2016-17 and 2017-18 campaigns.
As part of the agreement, Optus’s logo will appear on the Stars’ playing and training jerseys. The company will also receive advertising exposure at the club’s games. In addition, player appearances will be organised between the two parties to promote the partnership.
Clint Cooper, chief executive of the Stars, said: “We see this long-term partnership as one of the most significant club sponsorship deals in BBL history and we thank Optus for actioning this opportunity to allow the organisations to begin leveraging the partnership this season.”
Ben White, acting managing director of marketing and product at Optus, added: “As the principal partner of the Melbourne Stars, Optus remains committed to forming partnerships that align with our business values and deliver unique experiences for our customers.
“Eligible Optus customers will also be able to steam Big Bash League matches live via their Cricket Australia Live Pass, thanks to our existing partnership with Cricket Australia.”