When the reigning World Test Champions walk out against Australia at Kingsmead Stadium on Friday, 9 October, they'll carry the support of a nation in their hearts and, for the first time in five years, a homegrown logo on their chests.
The Proteas haven't had a front-of-shirt Test sponsor since 2020. That changes on Friday, when proudly South African company Jonsson Workwear takes its place on the front of the Test shirt.
As a leading global workwear provider, the brand which is headquartered in Durban will fittingly make its Test debut on home turf at Kingsmead.
Cricket South Africa (CSA) chief executive officer, Pholetsi Moseki, said:
"The front of our Test shirt has gone without a partner for a long time, so it means a great deal to see that change in the season our World Test Champions play at home for the first time. Test cricket remains the format that defines us, and Jonsson Workwear putting their name on the front of that shirt is a strong vote of confidence in it.
"From the outset, the Test shirt was at the heart of this partnership. To see it come to life as the Proteas take on the world's best in front of their home supporters is a proud moment for everyone at CSA."
With the initial announcement of Jonsson Workwear as Sponsor of the Proteas and Official Workwear and Apparel Partner to Cricket South Africa in August - the partnership placed the brand's logo on the sleeves of the men's and women's ODI and T20 kits. Having the brand displayed on the Test shirt is the centrepiece of the multi-year partnership with the World Test Champions.
Nick Jonsson, CEO of Jonsson Workwear, said, "There's a real sense of pride in bringing together two South African brands that represent hard work and performance. The Proteas carry the hopes of the nation on the world stage and in many ways reflect the grit we see in hardworking people across South Africa every day.
"For Jonsson Workwear, partnering with the Proteas is more than a sponsorship. This partnership reflects a shared belief that success is earned through dedication, teamwork and an unwavering commitment to excellence."
The partnership arrives at a defining moment for South African cricket. The Proteas' 2025 ICC World Test Championship title ranks among the greatest achievements in the team's history, and they now set their sights on defending it in mid-2027, ahead of the ICC Men's Cricket World Cup on home soil later that year. As the Proteas continue to take on the world's best, Jonsson Workwear will be right there with them.
