The Canterbury Phoenix men's cricket team has raised $2,060 for ChildFund's emergency response in Ukraine and are encouraging other sport teams to fundraise for ChildFund too.

Team captain Eliyas Varghese says it was easy decision for the team, to raise money for food and other essential supplies for children and families who are in desperate need in Ukraine following the Russian invasion in February.

"All the guys have worked really hard this season, and knowing we were fundraising to make a donation to ChildFund definitely helped with motivation," Eliyas says.

"With the devastating Russian invasion of Ukraine just a week after our final we didn't hesitate to put our donation towards helping people in Ukraine."

The team will continue to support ChildFund's work.

Some of the team travel a long distance to Christchurch for trainings and games, and Eliyas says the extra encouragement and motivation from ChildFund really helped the team spirit throughout the cricket season. He's encouraging other sport teams to think about fundraising also, not just for the good the donation does but for team spirit.

The Canterbury Phoenix finished runner up in the Christchurch Premier League after playing in a final against United XI at St James Park in Christchurch on February 20. ChildFund New Zealand CEO Mark Collins sent the team a video message on the morning of the match.

"A very big thank you to the Canterbury Phoenix team, their generous donation will go a long way in helping children through ChildFund," Mark says.

"We thoroughly appreciate their support and will look forward to next season."

Set up your own ChildFund fundraiser

Anyone can set up a fundraiser for ChildFund here. Phone 0800 808 822 or email info@childfund.org.nz for more information or to ask a question.