Brand manager of J Wray and Nephew Overproof Rum, David Walton (centre), poses with a sponsorship cheque with Charles Simpson (left), president of the Portmore Metropolitan Cricket League, and Lester Crooks during a press conference at the Portmore Municipal Council on Wednesday. - Anthony Minott

J Wray and Nephew Limited, blenders and bottlers of White Overproof rum, has poured in excess of $5 million into sponsoring the Portmore Cricket League over the next three years.

The sponsorship amount could potentially soar to as high as $10 million depending on the development of the league during the period.

The deal was revealed at a press conference to launch the league at the Portmore Municipal Council on Wednesday.

Brand manager for J Wray and Nephew White Overproof Rum, David Walton, said that his company is in "it (Portmore cricket) for the long haul". He added that the company will be offering strong support in the development of cricket in the Sunshine City. Walton has welcomed the thought of working alongside, associate sponsors, Petcom and MegaMart for the benefit of cricket in Portmore.

title sponsor

This is the first year the league has managed to attract a title sponsor. The deal will include prize money, umpire fees, players' gears branded with the J Wray and Nephew logo and the development of grounds in Portmore which are badly lacking in numbers and quality.

Some nine teams are confirmed for the league which will start on Sunday at the Ken's Wildflower sports ground. Last year's beaten finalists, Ken's Wildflower, will take on Portsmouth at 11 a.m with the opening ceremony starting at 10 a.m. Colours International are the defending champions.