THE Knights will now compete as the Flexbrands Knights after sealing a three-year naming-rights deal with brand group Flexbrands.
Free State Cricket Union chief executive officer Johan van Heerden described the partnership as an important vote of confidence in the Bloemfontein-based franchise’s direction.
“To secure a partner who shares the same values and long-term vision as the Knights is an exciting and positive step forward,” van Heerden said.
“This partnership signifies belief – belief in our potential, belief in our people and belief in the future we are building.
“Flexbrands is hungry to grow within South African sport, and together we aim to create a household name in Bloemfontein and throughout the cricket fraternity.”
Union president Xander Snyders said the collaboration represents more than a traditional commercial agreement.
“This is not only a sponsorship, but a shared journey of growth. We proudly welcome Flexbrands into the cricket family,” Snyders said.
“We are united by strong ethical values and a commitment to establishing both Flexbrands and the Knights as powerful, trusted names within South African sport.
“I am confident that together we will rise stronger, bolder and more successful.”
The partnership stretches beyond naming rights, with Flexbrands expected to play a key role in supporter engagement, brand innovation and strengthening cricket development pathways across central South Africa.
Flexbrands Group managing director Brandon Moran said the company is excited to invest in a team whose values align with its own.
“We are thrilled to join forces with the Knights at such a pivotal moment in their rise,” Moran said.
“This collaboration represents so much more than a name on a jersey – it is a commitment to investing in the people, passion and performance that move South Africa forward.
“The Knights embody resilience, ambition and community pride, and together we aim to unlock incredible opportunities for growth both on the field and within the regions and schools that live and breathe this sport.”
The Flexbrands Knights will adopt their refreshed identity with immediate effect as the franchise looks ahead to a period of renewed momentum on and off the field.