Dinesh Karthik (C), and Mark Boucher with budding cricketers in Mumbai during SA20 India Day event |
Former South Africa skipper Graeme Smith called India as a key market for the South Africa’s T20 League. Set to embark on third season SA20 celebrates its growing popularity with ‘SA20 India Day’ which was recently held in Mumbai.
The ‘SA20 India Day’ fostered cultural and sporting connections. It witnessed in attendance Graeme Smith, League Commissioner, Dinesh Karthik, SA20 India Ambassador and Mark Boucher, SA20 Ambassador, who discussed the league’s journey and vision, to firmly establish itself as one of the premier T20 franchise league competitions outside of India. The upcoming edition – Season 3 – which aims to deliver unforgettable and Incredible experiences, kicks off on January 9th, 2025, with the final taking place at the Wanderers on February 8.
“India is a key strategic market and an important part of 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,” Smith, said.
Karthik 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.”
Boucher, shed light on how the league has had a direct impact on the sport in South Africa, “The 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 SA20 has truly been a saving grace for South African cricket.”
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.
