Photo Credit: SA20 League
Betway SA20 celebrated its growing reception in India with the hosting of ‘SA20 India Day’, a day set aside to advance the League’s presence in Incredible India. League Commissioner, Graeme Smith, Ambassadors Mark Boucher and Dinesh Karthik hosted media, fans and key stakeholders in Mumbai, as the countdown to Season 3 starting on 9 January 2025 gathers momentum.
With India being a key strategic market for the League with six IPL-owned franchises and a long term broadcast partnership with Viacom, it also reaffirmed the League’s commitment to strengthening the relationship with India and its fans by fostering cultural and sporting connections.
Some of the topics discussed included the League’s journey and vision after two successful seasons, the roster of star players on the line to star in the third season, along with the aspirational impact the competition has made on the South African cricket eco-system.
Speaking about ‘SA20 India Day’, Graeme Smith, League Commissioner, said, “India is a key strategic market and an important part of Betway SA20’s vision. The support and enthusiasm from Indian fans over the past two seasons have been Incredible. The ‘SA20 India Day’ is a testament to the League’s growing popularity and acceptance here. With six IPL franchises involved, we’ve raised South African cricket to a global standard with the best of local talent playing alongside some of the best international stars. We ensured that we create a product that resonates with fans worldwide, and in India, where we have received plenty of support. The future holds immense opportunities, and we can’t wait to witness how the league unravels itself in this part of the world.”
Dinesh Karthik, SA20 India Ambassador, expressed his excitement on being the first Indian to debut in the league, “It’s amazing to see how SA20 is creating opportunities for players and building a bridge between South Africa and India. This league has a bright future ahead. The enthusiasm of Indian fans is unmatched, and I’m confident SA20 will continue to grow in their hearts and deliver Incredible experiences.”
Mark Boucher, SA20 Ambassador, shed light on how the League has had a direct impact on the sport in South Africa, “The Betway SA20 has provided young players with an opportunity to showcase their true potential while constantly nurturing growth in South Africa’s talent pool. Over the past two seasons, we’ve witnessed Incredible performances, with some players even graduating to represent the Proteas. This League doesn’t just benefit emerging talent; it also elevates the game of established players, who have further honed their skills by competing alongside international stars. The League has truly been a saving grace for South African cricket.”
Staying true to solidifying grassroots, in alignment with ‘Schools SA20’, the ‘SA20 India Day’ also witnessed the guests interact with budding cricketers from Mumbai, with each player walking away with customized merchandise together with a picture of their favourite SA20 stars. ‘Schools SA20’, launched earlier this year in South Africa, is an extension of SA20’s mission to continue to provide opportunities for young cricketers in South Africa, building on the success of the Rookie Draft System the League introduced for players in Season 2.
As the Betway SA20 gears up for another exciting season, with some of the top batters and bowlers in attendance, the League is poised to leave an indelible mark across the world. With a continued focus on capitalising on the growing reception and enthusiasm, it has garnered in India, SA20 aims to further strengthen its presence and appeal in the country.
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Name of Author: SA20 League
SA20, officially known as the Betway SA20 for sponsorship reasons, is a Twenty20 franchise cricket tournament in South Africa organized by Cricket South Africa (CSA). First held in the 2023 season, the league features six city-based teams. Sunrisers Eastern Cape won the first two editions of the tournament.
