JOBURG Super Kings open their account with Durban Super Giants in the hugely awaited SA20 2023 on January 11 at Kingsmead Stadium, Durban.
The T20 premier league will run for four weeks beginning from January 10 to February 11 2023, across all nine provinces.
To be known as Betway SA20, organisers also announced Sky Sports in a new five-year rights deal which will see South Africa’s premier T20 cricket league added to their cricket portfolio.
The world class tourney, backed by billions of rands, top notch superstars and excitement from fans, will also see MI Royals taking on Paarl Royals at Wanderers Stadium on January 10.
Gauteng province boast two sides, JSK and Pretoria Capitals (they face Sunrisers) from Eastern Cape on January 14 at Centurion.
JSK’s captain Faf du Plessis will be on his best, so is batsman Reeza Hendricks, while wild-card Aaron Phangiso, promises fire on the day.
MI Cape Town has the likes of fast bowler Kagiso Rabada and batting sensation Dewald Brevis and they are captained by Afghanistan superstar Rashid Khan.
Commenting on the deal, Betway SA20 League Commissioner, Graeme Smith said: “We’re delighted to extend the coverage of Betway SA20 to Sky Sports’ extensive fan base. This is a landmark deal which will grow our global footprint ahead of our launch on 10 January.”
Four weeks, thirty-three matches, six global franchises will be broadcast across Sky Sports Cricket channels for the first time,” says former Proteas captain.
The League features six privately-owned teams, who will play each other twice in a round-robin stage before the semis and final, live on Sky Sports.
SA20 has the backing of some of the most recognised T20 franchises in the world, with several IPL strongholds branching out to establish an even greater international footprint.
Former Proteas men’s captain, AB de Villiers, looks forward to his commentary debut.
He will be joined in the box by former players such as Mark Nicholas, Kevin Pietersen, Darren Gough (all England), Zainab Abbas, Urooj Mumtaz (both Pakistan), Chris Morris, AB de Villiers, Ashwell Prince, Herschelle Gibbs, Vernon Philander, ‘cricket lady’ Kass Naidoo, Shaun Pollock, Mark Boucher (all South Africa), Pommie Mbangwa (Zimbabwe), Daren Sammy (West Indies) and Mike Haysman (Australia).
Known as “MR 360”, De Villiers quipped: “I am a cricket fan at heart and I can’t wait to be behind the mic to watch the brilliant performances from the world’s best cricketers during the Betway SA20.
I am looking forward to joining some of my past team mates and cricketing legends for this exciting opportunity,” he commented.
Indeed, the grass will suffer as euphoric moments are expected from millions of fans worldwide.
It is hoped the tourney will bring much needed relief in mzansi following a poor showing by the Proteas against Australia.
Tickets and full fixture for the SA20 are available at www.ticketpro.co.za and www.sa20.co.za, respectively.
Meanwhile, Joburg Super Kings will reveal its new jersey ahead of the tourney this weekend.
