Wittenborg Partners with Salland Cricket Club to Bring New Sporting Opportunities to Students

20.07.2026

Wittenborg Staff and Students Take to the Pitch with Salland Cricket Club

Wittenborg has partnered with Salland Cricket Club in Deventer to give students the opportunity to take part in cricket, join a local sports community and enjoy one of the world’s most popular sports.

The partnership reflects Wittenborg’s commitment to offering students experiences beyond academic learning, supporting their personal development, wellbeing and involvement in the wider community.

“At Wittenborg, we strongly believe that education extends beyond the classroom,” said Rauf Abdul, Dean of Wittenborg. “As one of the most international higher education institutions in the Netherlands, it is essential for us to build meaningful partnerships with sports clubs and extracurricular organisations that contribute to students’ personal growth and wellbeing.”

Abdul explained that the partnership adds another way for students to stay active, build friendships and take part in activities outside their studies.

To mark the launch of the partnership, Wittenborg students and staff were invited to a cricket clinic at Salland Cricket Club’s grounds in Deventer. Participants practised batting, bowling and catching skills before putting them into action during a mini match.

Fahad Shakeel, Deputy Head of School of Business, said of the event: “We started with a warm-up in pleasant weather, followed by a friendly match that lasted around 45 minutes. Former Dutch national cricket team captain Steven Lubbers, who was leading the exercise, shared valuable tips and advice.”

Lubbers was joined by talented wicket-keeper batter Tim Seeto from Christchurch, New Zealand, who helped guide participants throughout the session.

Lubbers also highlighted the importance of the partnership for Salland Cricket Club, explaining that it will help attract more players and support the club’s continued development. With two cricket grounds and a strong position as one of the leading clubs in the east of the Netherlands, Salland Cricket Club offers players an excellent environment to enjoy and develop their skills.

Cricket has a strong connection with many members of the Wittenborg community. Students from countries including India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Australia, New Zealand, South Africa and Zimbabwe often have a close connection with the sport.

“Cricket means a great deal to many members of the Wittenborg community,” said Abdul. “We continuously strive to connect our students, faculty and staff not only through academic activities but also through healthy and enriching extracurricular opportunities.”

Through the partnership, Wittenborg students can join Salland Cricket Club and benefit from a discounted membership. Details about the offer have been shared with students internally.