The Sunrisers Eastern Cape will play MI Cape Town at St George’s Park in Gqeberha today to kick off the SA20 2025. SA20 will be aiming at developing the game in South Africa, according to the tournament’s commissioner, Graeme Smith, the iconic former captain of South Africa. Notably, Smith expressed a critical opinion over the International League T20 (ILT20), which is in conflict with the franchise league in South Africa.
Graeme Smith believed that while the SA20 seeks to support South Africa’s indigenous talent, the ILT20 is bad for the game because no money is invested in local cricket.
“We believe that we are extremely distinct from the ILT20. Our league is primarily composed of South African players, and our ultimate objective is to help South African athletes. I feel that a league like that is detrimental for the game; there are too many international players needed to make a team, and there is no investment back into local cricket. We have been built up against ILT20, so it’s really hard for me to avoid sounding like I’m disparaging them. Smith stated at a press conference in Cape Town that “that is a challenge for the world game and something that needs to be managed going forward.”
“Our country is a Full Member. Organising a worldwide competition while promoting South African cricket is our top aim. That is significant to us. Building the SA20 to the point where we are now acknowledged as one of the largest leagues outside of the IPL is what we have concentrated on’, Smith continued.
Graeme Smith competing in the IPL on the SA20
Smith discussed the competitive nature of the competition and the attendance they have been receiving over the past two seasons, as well as how the team has been competing with elite franchise tournaments like the IPL.
“Having the ability to draw in our six franchises.” They are fiercely competitive and highly professional. We’ve got some exceptional internationals, the best from South Africa, and good local players. When we reach this stage each year, there is a healthy mix of worry and excitement. To get here, we put forth a great deal of effort. We’re a well-established product after two seasons, and we’ve risen to what is likely the biggest league outside of the IPL,” Smith said.
“I’ll never forget seeing you familiar with the colours and fan bases of each team you support.” We hear from people all over the world that when they watch, they see a joyful South Africa in the summer, with packed stadiums and fantastic cricket,” Smith said.
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