Marston's links up with Twenty20

Marston's has extended its cricket sponsorship by becoming an official partner in the Twenty20 Cup.

As part of the two-year deal, Marston's Smooth will be the official beer of Twenty20 Cup matches and sponsor the umpires.

The deal also includes perimeter advertising, dug-out branding, tickets, hospitality packages and promotional activities around match venues.

Marston's will also share its best practice with the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) on issues such as bar staff training and promote the "Drink within your boundaries"​ campaign.

"Throughout our business we are committed to tackling and promoting responsible drinking,"​ said Marston's Beer Company marketing director Peter Jackson.

"This is reinforced through staff training within our pub businesses but also through on-pack, bottle and can messaging and brand advertising. ​

"We will be supporting the ECB by offering training to bar staff in ground and a host of other initiatives throughout the season."

The Twenty20 Cup 2008 begins on Wednesday, 11 June with finals day at The Rosebowl, Hampshire, on Saturday, 26 June.