NZC Secure Title and Presenting Right Partnership with Hero VIDA and Ai+ Smartphone

New Zealand Cricket (NZC) has secured a partnership with two Indian corporatation for the upcoming 12-match India tour commencing on 22 October 2026.

Hero MotoCorp’s emerging mobility arm, VIDA, has been appointed Title Sponsor across all three formats, comprising five T20Is, five ODIs, and two Tests, while fast-growing consumer electronics firm Ai+ Smartphone steps in as the official ‘Powered by’ partner.

The series coincides with the ‘100 Years of Unity through Sport’ programme, commemorating a century of sporting ties between the two nations since an Indian Army hockey team first toured New Zealand in 1926.

Commenting on the growing significance of the bilateral relationship and the value of aligning with major international brands, NZC CEO, Geoff Allott, said: “There’s no secret about how big this tour by India is and we’re delighted to have Hero MotoCorp and AI+ Smartphone partnering with us on it.”

“New Zealand’s relationship with India continues to go from strength to strength on and off the cricket field.

“Alongside the special rivalry that’s developed between the BLACKCAPS and India, it’s equally important that NZC continues to build bonds and partnerships with the Indian public and businesses.

“Hero VIDA and Ai+ Smartphone aren’t just backing this series, they’re backing cricket in New Zealand, and for that we are really appreciative,” Allott said.

EVP of global business – global product planning and global market insights at Hero MotoCorp, Sanjay Bhan, highlighted the alignment and global market positioning enabled by the sponsorship.

“We are proud to be the Title Sponsor for India’s tour of New Zealand, marking yet another significant chapter in the sporting relationship between the two nations.”

“For Hero VIDA, this partnership is an opportunity to associate with a highly anticipated international tournament while celebrating the spirit of movement, ambition and progress – principles deeply rooted in our brand.

“We look forward to an exciting series that inspires fans across the world and creates many memorable moments, both on and off the field,” Bhan said.

Noting the cross-category marketing utility of engaging with international cricket audiences, head of brand, marketing & growth at Ai+ Smartphone, Archi Gogoi, noted: “Cricket is more than a sport in India; it is a shared cultural experience that brings together audiences across generations and geographies.”

“Our partnership with New Zealand Cricket around India’s 12-match tour gives Ai+ an opportunity to participate in one of the most anticipated sporting moments of the year while building relevance for the brand beyond the smartphone category.

“Technology and sport share a common language of performance, innovation and constant evolution, and this partnership allows us to bring that connection to life in a meaningful way,” Gogoi said. 

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