SA20, South Africa’s premier T20 competition, continues to see an increase in fandom and affinity in India, owing to the overwhelming success of ‘SA20 India Day 2025’ in Mumbai. The event served as a watershed moment in the League’s expanding relationship with the subcontinent, as well as a springboard for Season 4, which will run from December 26 to January 25, 2026.
The celebration, held at the Museum of Solutions (MuSo), featured League Commissioner Graeme Smith, South African legends and current stars Faf du Plessis (Joburg Super Kings), David Miller (Paarl Royals), Tom Moody (Durban’s Super Giants), Hashim Amla (MI Cape Town), and South African legend Mark Boucher.
Tristan Stubbs (Sunrisers Eastern Cape), Adrian Birrell (Head Coach, Sunrisers Eastern Cape), and Sourav Ganguly (Head Coach, Pretoria Capitals) joined the celebration with special video messages expressing their support for Season 4. The event also included team representatives and official broadcasters JioStar, who came together to celebrate the League’s growth.
Over its first three seasons, SA20 has firmly established itself as the largest T20 league outside of India.
Thanks to a mix of world-class international stars such as Kane Williamson, Joe Root, Jos Buttler, Sunil Narine, Andre Russell, and Trent Boult, as well as emerging South African talent such as Dewald Brevis, Tristan Stubbs, Kwena Maphaka, Ryan Rickelton, and strong franchise and broadcast support. Season 3 was a watershed moment for growth, with a 70% increase in sold-out matches, including a third straight sold-out Final, and a 37% increase in worldwide television viewership across India, the UK, the US, and Pan-African markets.
Graeme Smith, League Commissioner, SA20, said:
“India has been at the heart of SA20’s journey from the start. The support of the IPL-owned teams and our partnership with JioStar has been vital. The passion and energy of Indian fans inspire us every season, and their connection has played a huge role in the league’s growth. As we head into Season 4, we’re excited to strengthen that bond and continue delivering a league that resonates across South Africa and the subcontinent.”
Faf du Plessis, Captain, Joburg Super Kings, added:
“As players, we can feel the buzz around SA20 — not just back home, but here in India too. It’s one of the best T20 leagues in the world — competitive, entertaining, and truly global. Seeing fans in India follow the matches, know the franchises, and connect with our teams is really special. It speaks volumes about what this league has built in such a short time.”
David Miller, Paarl Royals batter, said:
“SA20 has become a league fans can genuinely call their own. Whether you’re in Cape Town, Johannesburg, or Mumbai, you see people cheering for their teams, sharing highlights, and engaging with players. That connection with the fans is the league’s biggest win — it’s what makes cricket a true celebration between nations.”
Tom Moody, Global Director of Cricket, Durban’s Super Giants, said:
“SA20 has truly transformed into a league that connects players, fans, and franchises across borders. Every season, the quality of cricket continues to rise, and so does the passion surrounding it. What makes SA20 special is its ability to bring together South Africa’s homegrown spirit with the global cricket community — and the growing support from India is adding even more energy to that story.”
Hashim Amla, MI Cape Town Coach, said:
“Beyond the excitement and fandom, SA20 is also about creating pathways, for young players to learn, adapt, and compete at the highest level. The quality of cricket and exposure this platform provides is phenomenal. You can already see how it’s shaping the next generation of South African talent. The League has truly become a bridge between grassroots potential and global stardom.”
Mark Boucher, South African legend, said:
“Indian and South African cricket have always shared a special bond; of respect, rivalry, and a deep love for the game. SA20 carries that spirit forward, uniting the two cultures to create something truly special.”
SA20 India Day 2025’ also witnessed JioStar unveil its promo for Season 4 – a power-packed visual celebrating and capturing the spirit of SA20’s dynamic gameplay and passionate fan energy, setting the tone for an electrifying new season. In addition, content creators and superfans spent time soaking in the true vibe of the League in India, each walking away with exclusive SA20 merchandise.
With Season 4 on the horizon, SA20 is set to further solidify its connection with India. Together with the support of its franchises, broadcasters, partners, the League remains committed to making it more appealing, exciting, and incredible, staying true to its ethos of high-quality cricket and unmatched entertainment.
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