Date:04/01/2006 URL: http://www.thehindubusinessline.com/2006/01/04/stories/2006010402360800.htm

Back Allianz bags title sponsorship for Pak-India Test series

Our Bureau

Mumbai , Jan. 3

ALLIANZ will be the title sponsor of the 2006 Pakistan-India Test Series. Now called the Allianz Cup, it will mark the financial group's first foray into cricket sponsorship in Asia.

Under this sponsorship, Allianz will collaborate with the Pakistan Cricket Board and Nimbus Sport, the official marketing agency for the tournament.

According to a press release, Mr Steven Althaus, Vice-President, Marketing Communications, Allianz Group, said, "The decision to sponsor the 2006 Pakistan-India Test Series was driven by our intention to expand and further leverage the Allianz brand in the Asian region with particular focus on India — one of Allianz's core growth markets, as well as Pakistan. This premier cricket series is a welcome addition to our sponsorship portfolio and certainly adds to our global sponsorship strategy."

The Allianz Cup Test Series will take place between January 13 and 29.