MI Cape Town general manager Robin Peterson believes the SA20 league will “revolutionalise the game” in this country.
The first ball of the new six-team franchise tournament will be bowled in 100 days’ time, on Tuesday, 10 January 2023.
“The SA20 is going to have a massive impact on South African cricket,” said Peterson, who is also head coach of the EP Warriors. “It is going to revolutionalise the game in our country and, if used correctly and to its full potential, it will be an exciting competition.
“Being on the ground, working at domestic level, there is a certain level of excitement from cricketers that there is a league within our own country. There’s knowing that if they showcase their skills, who knows where it may lead to, be it playing for the Proteas or getting deals around the world.”
Peterson said there had been a lot of positive stories to come from last month’s SA20 player auction.
“A guy like Aya Gqamane is fit, professional and works really hard, he puts his head down and gets down to business. He lost his contract a few years ago, but it has been fantastic to see him rebuild his career at the Warriors and the Titans and to go on to get bought by the Sunrisers Eastern Cape.
“A player like Sisanda Magala also going to the same team in the Eastern Cape is awesome to see. In my opinion, he is the best death bowler in South Africa and he has been rewarded with a handsome sum.
“I certainly wish I had a platform like this during my playing days, not only for the financial reward but to showcase your talent on a global stage.”
Meanwhile, Joburg Super Kings assistant coach Albie Morkel said the auction had been a big success for the franchise and the league as a whole.
“There were a lot of quality local and international cricketers picked up and that will certainly produce competitive cricket from the teams. It’s the inaugural show of the SA20 and all the franchises will be looking to start the competition off on a positive note and to make a good impression. We have already started doing work behind the scenes and can’t wait for the action to start come 10 January.”
