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Sunbet  is making a bold statement in the South African betting landscape with its biggest giveaway yet. In partnership with Evolution Gaming,  Sunbet   awarded one lucky winner a brand-new BMW X2, valued at R1 million, at an exclusive event at Time Square in Pretoria this past Saturday, February 15. The grand prize? A sleek BMW worth over R1 million, paired with a luxurious weekend getaway at Time Square. Image supplied While high-stakes giveaways are not new to the betting world, this marks a first for  Sunbet  —one that signals its arrival as a major player in the industry. The giveaway isn’t just about luxury; it’s about pushing boundaries and bringing the thrill of high-performance betting to life, much like the essence of its "Come Alive". brand messaging. Image supplied “The Come Alive campaign is all about capturing the excitement of every moment, and that’s exactly what this giveaway embodies,”   says Justin Palte, CMO at Sunbet “We’re not just rewarding our players; we’re bringing the thrill and excitement of the game to the forefront.” Image supplied Tyler Gentle,   Sunbet ’ s Casino product specialist, emphasised the importance of this collaboration:  “Partnering with Evolution Games allows us to offer world-class gaming experiences, and this BMW giveaway demonstrates the strength of that partnership and the excitement we want to bring to our players.” Image supplied Sunbet ’s partnership with Evolution Gaming has allowed it to expand its offering with world-class live casino games, and this collaboration has now extended into a once-in-a-lifetime prize. Players earned their entries through selected Evolution games, making this giveaway an immersive extension of the premium gaming experience  Sunbet  i s known. Image supplied BMW X2 winner Ruan Pelser, graciously accepted his win in front of a live audience at Time Square and drove away in a luxury SUV that perfectly mirrors the exhilarating nature of  Sunbet ’ s betting environment. The event served as a celebration of  Sunbet ’s continued growth, reinforcing its commitment to delivering premium rewards and unparalleled excitement to its customers. Image supplied Justin further shares how they are redefining the betting landscape: " Sunbet   is all about giving players more—more excitement, more rewards, and more reasons to keep coming back. Giving away an R1 million BMW is just one example of how we look to step up to the plate and offer the world-class experience you’d expect from Sun International. Thanks to our valued partner, Evolution, we made this incredible prize a reality, and there’s plenty more on the way. Image supplied This is just the beginning—  Sunbet   is where you play bigger, win bigger, and ‘Get More from Every Moment” while you “Come Alive” like never before,”  Palte adds.

Big Concerts has announced that Michael Flatley’s world-renowned Lord Of The Dance will be gracing South African stages in 2025 as part of the highly anticipated ‘A Lifetime of Standing Ovations’ tour. This spectacular production, which has captivated millions of fans across the globe, promises to deliver a mesmerising showcase of Irish dance, breathtaking choreography, and world-class artistry. Hosted in an intimate seating configuration, the tour will kick off at the Grand Arena, GrandWest, Cape Town on the 15th, 16th and 17th of August and then head to the SunBet Arena, Time Square, Pretoria on the 22nd, 23rd, and 24th of August. Image supplied August 2025 brings novel musical elements and choreography to Lord of the Dance, which seamlessly combines the old and the new. Updated costumes add a glamorous yet contemporary flare to the new look. State-of-the-art technology and special effects lighting enhance the audience experience and envelope them in the world of Lord of the Dance. The spectacle features 40 of the world’s most outstanding young performers led by veteran dancer Matt Smith as The Lord, directed by Michael Flatley, with music by composer Gerard Fahy. Following Michael Flatley’s ground-breaking performance, Riverdance, which caught the world’s attention at Eurovision 1994, Lord of the Dance has embodied Flatley’s belief that “Nothing is impossible, follow your dreams.” Since its premiere, Michael Flatley’s Lord Of The Dance has sold out over 1000 theatres, arenas and stadiums worldwide and been seen by over 60 million people in 60 different countries on every continent, making it one of the most successful dance productions in the world. Image supplied The show has played at iconic venues and landmarks such as Madison Square Garden and the Lyric Theatre, New York; London’s O2 and Wembley Arena; Accor Arena, Paris; Hyde Park Route of Kings; and The Temples of Baalbek, Lebanon. Lord of the Dance has received countless accolades and broken box office records across the globe. In 1998, Lord of the Dance performed a record-breaking 21 consecutive sell-out shows at London’s Wembley Arena – a feat for which it still holds the record and which earned Michael Flatley a place on Wembley’s illustrious Square of Fame. Michael Flatley’s Lord of the Dance has not only brought Irish dancing to the world stage, it has catapulted the art of Irish dance to a higher plane and captured the hearts and minds of millions worldwide. The spectacular show has dazzled audiences around the world with its unique combination of high-energy Irish dancing, original music, storytelling and sensuality. Image supplied The beloved Irish dance show transcends culture and language. Lord of the Dance speaks to all, crossing boundaries of age, gender and cultural diversity. Its timeless, universal appeal has made Lord of the Dance one of the most enduring productions of all time. 2024 sees the show tour the world once more with over 250 dates across Europe with more dates and territories to be added. Event Details: Grand Arena, GrandWest, Cape Town Friday 15 August. Doors 18H30. Show starts at 19H30 Saturday 16 August matinee. Doors 13H00. Show starts at 14H00 Saturday 16 August Doors 18H30. Show starts at 19H30 Sunday 17 August matinee. Doors 12H30. Show starts 13H30 Image supplied SunBet Arena, Time Square, Pretoria Friday 22 August. Doors 18H00. Show starts at 19H30 Saturday 23 August matinee. Doors 12H30. Show starts at 14H00 Saturday 23 August. Doors 18H00. Show starts at 19H30 Sunday 24 August matinee. Doors 12H00. Show starts at 13H30 Ticket sales go live on Friday, 07 February 2025 on  www.ticketmaster.co.za  and  www.bigconcerts.co.za .

South Africa’s National Baseball Team Competes for a Spot in the 2026 World Baseball Classic   ESPN Africa will broadcast the upcoming World Baseball Classic Qualifiers live from Taiwan, bringing African audiences the excitement of international baseball as South Africa’s national baseball team fights for a place in the prestigious 2026 World Baseball Classic.   Image supplied The qualifiers, taking place from 21 – 25 February at the Taipei Dome, will see South Africa face off against top international competition, including Nicaragua, Chinese Taipei, and Spain in their pool. With only two coveted spots available in the 2026 World Baseball Classic, the stakes are high, and ESPN Africa is ensuring fans across the continent can follow every moment of South Africa’s journey.   Image supplied Key fixtures in the qualifiers: Friday, 21 February – 06:00 on ESPN: South Africa vs. Nicaragua  Saturday, 22 February – 13:00 on ESPN2: Chinese Taipei vs. South Africa  Sunday, 23 February – 06:00 on ESPN: South Africa vs. Spain  Tuesday, 25 February – 13:00: 2nd vs. 3rd place decider (channel TBC if applicable)   Image supplied The tournament follows a round-robin format, with the top team securing an automatic spot in the 2026 World Baseball Classic. The second and third-ranked teams will battle in a final decider on 25 February for the remaining qualification place.   For updates on the World Baseball Classic Qualifiers and from the world of American sports, fans can connect to @ESPNAfrica on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram or visit Africa.espn.com .    Image supplied How to tune in to ESPN:   ESPN: DStv 218, Starsat 248  ESPN2: DStv 219, Starsat 249   All times are stated in CAT / SAST. Schedule subject to change

After nearly three decades of welcoming guests from around the world, Sun International’s beloved Grand Dame, The Table Bay Hotel, officially closed its doors on 15 February to embark on an exciting journey of transformation.   Image supplied Come December 2025, the hotel will reopen as InterContinental Table Bay, Cape Town, following a major refurbishment that will elevate its offering while preserving its signature warmth and hospitality. Sun International will continue to manage and operate the hotel on behalf of the V&A Waterfront (Pty) Ltd, the property owner and developer , under a new franchise agreement with IHG Hotels & Resorts, one of the world’s leading hotel companies.   Reflecting on this moment, Table Bay General Manager Joanne Selby shared, “ Our last guests checked out on Saturday, marking the end of an unforgettable chapter. As we pack up furniture, fixtures, and cherished memories, we do so with a mix of nostalgia and excitement. This is not goodbye - it’s au revoir. When we reopen, the heart of The Table Bay will remain the same: our incredible staff, whose warmth and dedication have made this hotel feel like home to so many . ”   Image supplied In a testament to the hotel’s enduring spirit, staff will stay on and will return for the grand reopening. “ Over the years, we’ve welcomed guests who first visited as children, then returned with their own families. Some even made The Table Bay their home because of the deep connections they formed here. While the hotel’s look may change, its soul - its people - will remain unchanged ,” said Selby.   Since its grand opening in May 1997, graced by Nelson Mandela, The Table Bay has been a beacon of world-class hospitality. From royalty and rock stars to world leaders and sports legends - including England’s famous Barmy Army, who once drank the bar dry in 2016 - it has hosted some of the most remarkable guests.   Image supplied Sun International CEO Anthony Leeming reflected, “For almost 30 years, we have proudly owned and operated The Table Bay, positioning it as an award-winning icon of elegance and excellence. While this marks the end of an era, we eagerly anticipate its next chapter. Together with the V&A Waterfront and IHG, Sun International is honoured to be part of this incredible Hotel’s transformative journey to becoming an InterContinental Hotel, at what is undeniably one of the best Hotel addresses in the world, and to delivering an even greater experience for our guests”.   Image supplied The InterContinental Table Bay, Cape Town, will feature 306 beautifully designed rooms and suites, offering breathtaking views of Table Mountain, the harbour, and the Atlantic Ocean. Guests will continue to enjoy direct access to the vibrant V&A Waterfront, home to world-class shopping, dining, and entertainment, attracting millions of visitors each year.   As one chapter closes, a thrilling new one begins, promising an even more spectacular future for this legendary Cape Town icon.

Three eras, one icon. The Vans Premium Old Skool Music Collection remixes prints and colours from music’s most defining moments. Now with enhanced cushioning, improved fit, and archival details for the next generation. Image supplied The Vans Old Skool has always been more than a skate shoe. It’s a symbol of rebellion, creativity, and the underground scenes that shaped culture.  First released in 1977, the Style 36—aka the Old Skool—was the second skate shoe Vans ever made and the first to feature the iconic Sidestripe™. It was designed for those who move to their own beat, both on and off the board. From punk’s gritty dive bars to Warped Tour stages and hip-hop’s underground cyphers, the Old Skool has been laced up by artists, outcasts, and game-changers who redefine the sound of their generation.  This year, Vans is taking it up a notch with the Premium Old Skool Music Collection, a lineup of three drops that remix iconic eras of music and skate history. The result is a premium build featuring upgraded comfort, archival details, and the same raw attitude that made the Old Skool legendary. Image supplied The first drop throws it back to the energy of punk and hardcore, featuring bold leopard print and standout solids straight from the ‘70s and ‘80s. The second drop rewinds to the era of Vans Warped Tour—mosh pits, stage dives, and endless summer energy. Its Classic Checkerboard, two-tone colourways, and flame prints capture the rebellious spirit of Y2K. The last drop features vibrant colourways on gum soles that call back to when underground hip hop took the Old Skool to new places. Image supplied Built to push boundaries, the Vans Premium Old Skool Build takes an icon and levels it up. With enhanced cushioning, a dialed-in fit and archival details, this evolution stays true to its roots while stepping into the future. The updated silhouette delivers a more seamless feel and features 30% biobased Sola Foam ADC insoles for all-day comfort. Glossy sidewalls, higher foxing tape, and throwback branding bring that ‘90s-era edge, proving once again that Old Skool never fades, it just gets better. Image supplied For the collection, Vans tapped into musicians and Vans Skate Team athletes who embody the duality between both creative mediums, united through shared communities and raw emotion, including The Paranoyds and Nelly Morville , Voice of Baceprot and Basral Graito , Little Simz and Helena Long as well as Hi-Tech and Etienne Gagné . These crews shape cultural narratives through their creative endeavors and uplift the “Off The Wall” mindset with the Old Skool on their feet The Premium Old Skool Music Collection will drop monthly beginning February 13 at Vans retail locations and at Vans.co.za .

The final season, starring Jay Hernandez, will air every Friday at 8 PM Image supplied Universal TV (DStv 117) has today announced the return of the popular series Magnum P.I., with Season 5 premiering on 21 February 2025 . The twenty-part crime drama is set to captivate audiences with new episodes airing every on Friday at 8 PM, until the series finale on 20 June.  Thomas Magnum (Jay Hernandez) is back on the case in the action-packed fifth season of this modern spin on the classic series. The former Navy Season turned private investigator tackles thrilling cases in beautiful Hawaii as the series revs up for a new era with more romance and emotion than ever before. This season finds Magnum and Higgins (Perdita Weeks) starting a romantic relationship at long last, while diving deeper into the lives of the beloved Magnum P.I. Ohana, including Rick (Zachary Knighton), TC (Stephen Hill), Katsumoto (Tim Kang) and Kumu (Amy Hill).   Image supplied The action-packed reimagining of one of TV’s most iconic series, Magnum P.I., sees Jay Hernandez ( Suicide Squad, Bad Moms ) star as title character Thomas Magnum. Perdita Weeks ( Ready Player One) supports as Juliet Higgins. They are supported by Zachary Knighton ( Happy Endings ) as Orville ‘Rick’ Wright and Stephen Hill (Law & Order: SUV ) as Theodore ‘TC’ Calvin. Tim Kang ( The Mentalist ) as Detective Gordon Katsumoto and Amy Hill ( Fifty First Dates ) as Teuila ‘Kamu’ Tuileta round out the cast.   Image supplied From CBS Television Studios and Universal Television, Magnum P.I. is executive produced by Eric Guggenheim, Barbie Kligman, John Davis, Justin Lin, John Fox, David Wolkove, and Gene Hong. Season 5 of Magnum P.I. premieres on Universal TV on 21 February at 20.00, with episodes airing every Friday until the series finale on 20 June. Universal TV is available on DStv Channel 117 across Africa.

Sandton City celebrates the languages of love Image supplied Love speaks in many ways, and this Valentine’s month, Sandton City is celebrating them all. In the latest instalment of its beloved annual campaign, Talking Love , the shopping destination invites shoppers to explore how people express and experience love—through laughter, thoughtful gestures, quality time, or a perfectly chosen gift.   Image supplied For this year’s digital campaign, Sandton City partnered with four celebrity couples. Whether it’s a shared passion for food, a love of fashion, or the joy of creating unforgettable moments together, each couple’s story highlights the beauty of personal expression in relationships. Featuring musician and restaurateur J’Something and his wife Coco, comedian Jason Goliath and his wife Sian, reigning Miss South Africa Mia Le Roux and her partner Luke, and renowned wedding planner Zavion Kotze with his husband John, the campaign takes a heartfelt look at love in its many expressions. Image supplied Through a series of engaging conversations, the couples share their love languages and the ways they celebrate their connection, encouraging others to reflect on their own. Shoppers are invited to join the conversation by sharing their love language on social media (@sandtoncitymall, #TalkingLoveSC) for a chance to win a R5 000 Sandton City shopping spree. The competition is running until 28 February 2025. Image supplied Now in its third year, the campaign continues to evolve. From Love is Love in 2023 to Lessons in Love in 2024, Talking Love brings a fresh perspective, proving that the language of love is ever-changing but always meaningful.   Watch the behind-the-scenes video here: https://www.instagram.com/reel/DF4vG1qKsiw/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==   Image supplied For more information and updates, visit www.sandtoncity.com or follow @sandtoncitymall on social media.

Skip the stress and celebrate love with Ocean Basket’s Perfect Catch Platter for Two for just R299. Image supplied Valentine’s Day is around the corner, which means it’s time to figure out where to go, what to eat, and how to avoid an overpriced bill that ruins the mood. Ocean Basket is keeping it simple with a deal that’s all about great food, great value, and zero stress: the Perfect Catch Platter for Two. Image supplied Expect a generous spread of delicious Prince prawns, crispy calamari, flaky fish,  Panko prawns, mussels, rice, and chips, all served with Ocean Basket’s signature creamy lemon sauce. No tiny portions, no unnecessary fuss—just fresh, delicious seafood for sharing. It’s the ultimate way to celebrate love, whether that’s with a partner, a bestie, or your favourite people gathered around a table. Designed for those looking to celebrate without the usual last-minute stress, the Perfect Catch Platter is just R299 (excluding wine or extras) and is available for sit-down at all Ocean Basket restaurants across South Africa. The special kicks off on 14 February and runs until 28 February, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the offer even if you miss the big day. Image supplied If you’re looking for an easygoing, feel-good way to celebrate Valentine’s, this is it. Great food, great company, and a full two weeks to enjoy it. No reservation is needed; simply show up and enjoy! Remember to follow Ocean Basket on   Instagram  or   Facebook  to keep up with their specials. Looking forward to your favourable revert with links to the outstanding coverage

Getting back to the grind doesn’t mean compromising on self-care. For men who value looking and feeling fresh but don’t have endless time to spend in front of the mirror, an efficient grooming routine is key. Image supplied Research shows that men spend an average of 5-15 minutes grooming daily. Here's how to maximise those precious minutes and step out ready to conquer the day, explains Clere For Men brand manager, Themba Ndlovu: Step 1: Cleanse and refresh (1–2 minutes) – Start with a quick face wash to remove overnight oil and dirt buildup. Use lukewarm water to wake up your skin without stripping its natural moisture. A clean face sets the scene for everything else. Step 2: Hydrate your skin (1 minute) – Apply a lightweight lotion that absorbs quickly and leaves no greasy residue. Keeping your skin hydrated helps maintain a smooth, healthy appearance and protects against environmental stressors like pollution. Step 3: Stay sweat-free and fresh all day (1 minute) – A key step in any grooming routine is selecting a reliable antiperspirant to keep you dry and confident throughout the day. The Clere For Men Active range of anti-perspirant roll-ons offers: 48-hour protection against sweat and odour. Three masculine fragrances: Fresh Cooling, Fresh Energy, and Invisible Dry. The Invisible Dry variant ensures protection without leaving white or yellow marks on your clothing. “The Clere For Men Active range is designed for busy men who need all-day odour and sweat protection without sacrificing style or confidence,” says Ndlovu. Step 4: Tidy up facial hair (3–4 minutes) – If you’re sporting a beard or stubble, spend a few minutes grooming it to keep it neat. Use a trimmer to define edges and trim any stray hairs. For a clean-shaven look, opt for a quick shave with a razor and shaving gel for smooth results. Step 5: Style your hair (2 minutes) – Whether you’re working with short hair, a fade, or thicker hair, spend a moment styling it to perfection. A bit of wax or gel goes a long way in creating a polished look that lasts all day. Step 6: The final touch (1 minute) – Complete your grooming routine with a spritz of cologne or body spray. Choose a scent that complements your antiperspirant for a cohesive, long-lasting impression. By following these steps, you can nail an efficient grooming routine in 10 minutes or less – perfect for busy mornings when you’re racing against the clock. Invest in the right products, like the Clere For Men Active range, and make grooming simple, effective, and effortlessly smooth. For more from Clere For Men visit their website and the following social media platforms; /ClereForMen   @clereformen

This January, Levi’s® and UNDERCOVER will join forces once again, blending UNDERCOVER’s bold aesthetic with timeless Levi’s® design to celebrate the 35th anniversary of Jun Takahashi’s epochal brand. Known for its eclectic blend of streetwear, high fashion, and subversive yet elevated designs, UNDERCOVER by Jun Takahashi is a Japanese fashion label that challenges traditional boundaries of style and culture. Combining UNDERCOVER’s rich archival references with Levi’s® unmistakable DNA, the second Levi’s® x UNDERCOVER collection introduces an array of thoughtfully designed pieces that reflect a commitment to creativity, innovation, and personal style.  Image supplied Inspired by both brands’ heritage, the 9-piece Levi’s® x UNDERCOVER collection showcases detailed craftsmanship and design elements. The Pinnacle Type II Trucker Jackets feature detachable zip detailing on the sleeves, collar, and side seams, allowing wearers to mix and match components for a customisable look, referencing UNDERCOVER’s “Exchange” program from their AW1998 collection. The jackets are crafted from indigo selvedge denim and black corduroy respectively, finished with a co-branded jacron patch and ‘Small Parts’ neck label as a nod to UNDERCOVER’s original concept.  Image supplied The collection’s Type I Trucker Jacket is crafted from black & white 12 oz. denim with an embroidered zigzag pattern on the sleeves & bottom hem, referencing archival UNDERCOVER graphics from 2003. The Type III Trucker Jacket, delivered with similar construction, features a newly developed artwork inspired by the interconnected concept of yin-yang, adorned with a dual chest embroidery of ‘light’ and ‘darkness’ on the front, plus a mix of screen-printed and embroidered graphics on the back.  Image supplied The collection includes two pairs of denim – a 501® Jean and a Baggy Jean - which mirror the composition, wash, and design details of the Trucker Jackets. The 501® Jean retains its classic silhouette with an embroidered zigzag pattern down the side seams and a co-branded back patch to match the Type I Trucker Jacket. The Baggy Jean offers a looser, relaxed fit and features a mix of screen-print & embroidery techniques to match the Type III Trucker Jacket.  Image supplied Rounding off the collection are three T-shirts depicting the same visual language, each developed from cotton jersey fabrics. The long-sleeve T-shirt is offered in white and completed with a printed zigzag pattern on the neck and sleeves. The short-sleeve T-shirts come in black and white and feature a combination of printed & embroidered graphic techniques. From archival references to distinct graphic direction, the comprehensive range reflects Levi’s® and UNDERCOVER’s dedication to quality, craftsmanship, and versatility.  Image supplied The campaign features Flea, bassist of the Red Hot Chili Peppers, photographed in his Malibu home by his daughter, Clara Balzary. Beloved for his simultaneously light and dark music, iconic personal style, and unfiltered creativity, Flea embodies the spirit of the collection.    Image supplied The Levi’s® x UNDERCOVER collection launches worldwide on January 18th and will be available for purchase on Levi.co.za , Sandton City, V&A Waterfront, undercoverism.com , and select UNDERCOVER Stores.

Vans West End is an innovative new approach to retail that takes Vans’ skate DNA to a new level through elevated and functional design, exclusive product assortments and regular event programming to create a fully transformable space for the London community   Image supplied - Photo Credit: Tom D. Morgan Vans is putting skateboarding front and centre with a one-of-a-kind skateable retail installation in the heart of London. The iconic Oxford Street location, originally opened in 2019, has been transformed into a next-level retail and community destination, celebrating the cultures that made Vans what it is today – skateboarding, music and art.   Designed by Milan-based architecture firm, Andrea Caputo Studio, the Vans West End store showcases skateboarding culture through elevated architectural and retail design, including a fully transformable skate ramp that brings the House of Vans spirit to a commercial environment through groundbreaking design.   Image supplied - Photo Credit: Tom D. Morgan A 200-square-metre Roman travertine stone skate ramp runs throughout the entire store, which can be fully merchandised with interchangeable glass modules when not in use as a skate obstacle. Designed as a single large block of stone, entirely laid and polished on-site, the ramp will be the beating heart of the store, used for regular skate lessons, demos and events by the Vans skate team and local skate schools. The ramp was designed with the input and consultancy of our Vans skate team, including Martino Cattaneo, Helena Long, Josh Young, Willow Voges Fernandes and Jordan Thackeray.   Image supplied - Photo Credit: Tom D. Morgan - Athlete: Martino Cattaneo The concept of Vans West End takes a radical approach to contemporary retail design, adopting a strategy that reduces the store’s storage space requirements by over 50%, increasing the commercial space substantially. The use of materials includes a unique grinded plywood, a subtle nod to the construction of skate ramps. The plywood underwent an editing process, specifically grinding, which allowed for carving into the wood’s stratigraphy resulting in a one-of-kind carved effect.   Image supplied - Photo Credit: Tom D. Morgan The entire space can be evolved to support the different cultural moments that Vans will present at the store regularly. One day it can be in skate mode, hosting kids lessons or a skate demo, the next day it can be ready to welcome a live music show or an art exhibition.    Image supplied - Photo Credit: Rafal Wojnowski- Rafal Wojnowski Athletes: Aaron Jago, Leo Turner, Willow Voges Fernandes Vans West End is the opportunity for Vans to create authentic relationships with consumers through genuine partnerships, assortment elevation and curated capsules. The introduction of third-party partners is a first for the brand in Europe. A curated selection of partners that align with Vans counterculture values include The Great Frog, Gomi and Lovenskate. The modular fixture design of the store will allow us to create moments and curated spaces for each initiative, driving new visual merchandising standards.   Famed London jewelers,  The Great Frog  have merged their punk and metal aesthetics with Vans DNA to create bespoke Vans branded pieces, featuring the iconic waffle, our Checkerboard Slip-On and skull motifs. The custom pieces will be sold alongside iconic items from The Great Frog line.   Brighton-based  Gomi  create custom printed speakers and power banks from recycled e-bikes and have worked with Vans to design a collection of checkerboard speakers and power banks, carried exclusively at Vans West End.   And longtime friends of the brand,  Lovenskate  have produced a series of decks and posters with artists including Chloe Bernard, French Sayer, Jon Horner and Isabel White (aka Elfin). The Lovenskate artist series of decks and posters will be available to purchase at the store.   Vans West End have also collaborated with London-based creative  Jack Charlie Mitchell  who has produced an exclusive zine for the store – “Feel” – featuring work from a diverse spectrum of London creatives. Additionally, Vans and Jack have partnered on a curation of media including books and music for the West End location.   Image supplied -  Tom D. Morgan Alongside the introduction of select partners who will evolve on a regular basis, Vans West End will also be a curated and elevated environment for Vans own product assortment with  OTW,   Premium  and  Skate  at the centre. Vans West End is the first owned retail location in Europe that will stock Vans most pinnacle category – OTW by Vans – previously only available at select partners in the region. Exclusive Vans West End drops will also be available at the store, including a series of “Innit” tees and skate decks as a playful nod to the local slang.   Image supplied - Tom D. Morgan & Photo Credit: Rafal Wojnowski - Athlete: Aaron Jago Further pushing the boundaries of what Vans West End will be, the store will restock some of Vans’ most sought-after and limited collections from previous years. The restock will include very limited quantities from drops including  OTW by Vans x Parra ,  Vans x BAPE ,  OTW by Vans x Undercover  and UK skate collaborations including  Helena Long’s  2023 collection and the Safe Low from  Rory Milanes  and  Danny Brady .   Andreas Olsson, Vice President and General Manager Vans EMEA:   “When I came back to Vans a little over a year ago, we set out a clear strategy re-setting us for brand elevation through the lens of skateboarding. We had to course correct, making sure we were listening to what youth culture wants and needs from us when it comes to products and experiences. Now just over a year in, we have made big progress against setting new standards for where we want the brand to go and this destination is an important step in that journey”.   The Vans West End location is now open and can be found at 214 Oxford St, London W1D 1LA. The new  Vans London  I nstagram page will be the hub for all future event programming. For more information, visit  Vans.eu/WestEnd .   Vans, “Off The Wall” Since ’66

Four former Proteas Women players will be at the helm of the South Africa U19 Women in the second edition of the ICC U19 Women’s T20 World Cup Malaysia 2025. Image supplied Dinesha Devnarain, Trisha Chetty, Marcia Letsoalo, and Angelique Taai have all donned the green and gold and now look to impart knowledge and lessons to the next generation of players.   With the team aiming to improve on their inaugural performance and go all the way in this year’s tournament, the coaching staff’s wealth of experience and expertise is proving to be a vital asset as they prepare to chase greatness on the world stage.   After narrowly missing out on a playoff spot in 2023 due to net run rate, Head Coach, Dinesha Devnarain emphasised the importance of preparation and unity in pursuit of excellence.   “It is a massive honour and privilege to head up the SA U19 Women for the second time. Working with the 2023 and 2025 groups has allowed me to see what’s coming next for women’s cricket and to holistically represent the Women’s Proteas brand.   "We’ve placed a strong focus on building a cohesive leadership team, aligning with our philosophy of playing an aggressive yet calculated brand of cricket that mirrors the Proteas Women,” she continued.   "As a former Proteas player, my coaching philosophy prioritises people before performance. I believe in developing players holistically, focusing on small improvements and fostering a culture of care and growth. It’s about getting 1% better each day and doing the basics exceptionally well,” said Devnarain.   Image supplied Team Manager Marcia Letsoalo shared her perspective on the team’s journey;   “This team represents the future of South African women’s cricket, and it’s been a privilege to be part of their development. We’ve worked tirelessly to instil a sense of purpose and pride in wearing the green and gold.   “The journey to the World Cup has been about more than just cricket; it’s been about teaching these young stars the values of teamwork, dedication, and self-belief.   “Chasing greatness on the world stage is no easy feat, but I’m confident in this group’s ability to rise to the occasion and make South Africa proud,” said Letsoalo.   The team’s fielding coach, Trisha Chetty, expressed her excitement about mentoring the next generation of Proteas.   “It has been a bit of a rollercoaster over the past 18 months, but the girls have worked incredibly hard and have set high standards as a fielding unit. Our focus now is on maintaining those standards at the World Cup and building the resilience to bounce back when things don’t go our way.   “Transitioning into coaching after 16 years of playing at the highest level has allowed me to share my knowledge and experiences with these young players. It’s an incredible feeling to help them develop not only their skills but also the mental toughness needed to thrive in high-pressure situations,” said Chetty.   Image supplied Angelique Taai, the team’s bowling coach, highlighted the comprehensive development of the bowling unit:   “We’ve worked on fundamental skills and fitness to ensure our bowlers can sustain their performance throughout the tournament. Mental toughness and adaptability have been a significant focus, as young bowlers often face challenges when playing on different pitches and in varying conditions.   “As a former Proteas bowler, I’ve been able to draw on my experience to nurture the next generation. By blending technical knowledge with personal insights from my playing days, I hope to contribute to the success of this team and its individuals. Our bowlers are prepared to face the challenges of the World Cup with confidence and resilience.”   South Africa U19 Women Squad: ICC U19 Women’s T20 World Cup 2025 (18 January - 02 February)   Kayla Reyneke (Captain, Western Province), Jemma Botha (Western Province), Fay Cowling (Lions), Jae-Leigh Filander (Western Province), Mona-Lisa Legodi (Titans), Simoné Lourens (Titans), Karabo Meso (Lions), Seshnie Naidu (Dolphins), Nthabiseng Nini (Dragons), Luyanda Nzuza (Free State), Diara Ramlakan (Lions), Diedré van Rensburg (North West Dragons), Mieke van Voorst (Eastern Storm), Ashleigh van Wyk (Eastern Storm), Chanel Venter (Titans). Image supplied Non-travelling Reserves   Lethabo Bidli (Lions), Keamogetswe Chuene (Lions), Jenna-Lee Lubbe (Lions), Jané Verhage (Titans), Sinelethu Yaso (Western Province).   Management   Dinesha Devnarain (Head Coach), Marcia Letsoalo (Team Manager), PJ Jansen (Batting Coach), Angelique Taai (Bowling Coach), Trisha Chetty (Fielding Coach), Adele van Eck (High-Performance Analyst), Dr Dhavina Naidoo (Team Doctor), Esther Bhengu (Physiotherapist), Stacey-Lee Hercules (Strength and Conditioning Coach), Terrence Adonis (Educator), Alungile Nyakambi (Media Specialist) .   SA U19 Women Fixtures:  ICC U19 Women’s T20 World Cup 2025 (18 January - 02 February)   Saturday, 18 January @ 08h30 SAST - 1st Match: New Zealand vs South Africa U19 (Borneo Cricket Ground, Sarawak)   Monday, 20 January @ 08h30 SAST - 2nd Match: South Africa U19 vs Samoa (Borneo Cricket Ground, Sarawak)   Wednesday, 22 January @ 08h30 SAST - 3rd Match: South Africa U19 vs Nigeria (Borneo Cricket Ground, Sarawak)   Saturday, 25 January - Wednesday, 29 January - Super Six Stage   Friday, 31 January @ 04h30 SAST - 1st Semi-final (Bayuemas Oval, Kuala Lumpur)   Friday, 31 January @ 08h30 SAST - 2nd Semi-final (Bayuemas Oval, Kuala Lumpur)   Sunday, 02 February @ 08h30 SAST - Final (Bayuemas Oval, Kuala Lumpur)