Five years ago, South African domestic cricket entered a new era. Backed by majority shareholder Cricket South Africa (CSA), broadcaster SuperSport and six IPL-owned franchises, South Africa’s premier T20 franchise competition came to life.
Since the first ball was bowled at a sold-out Newlands on 10 January 2023, Betway SA20 has grown from strength to strength, showcasing the depth of South African cricketing talent while attracting some of the biggest names in the global game.
Five years on, the numbers tell their own story, with over 1.6 million tickets sold, more than 500 million TV viewers and a social media following that has grown to over four million. On the field, fans have cheered on 1 611 sixes, 1 511 wickets and 43 one-handed catches. Collectively, it has resulted in a bank of magical memories and unforgettable moments.
As Betway SA20 prepares for its fifth season starting on 17 January 2027, stakeholders, partners and everyone who has been part of the journey since inception came together in celebration, reflecting on five years of the journey while looking ahead to an even bigger and better fifth season.
Betway SA20 League Commissioner Graeme Smith says reaching five years is a proud milestone for the League.
"Reaching five years is a significant milestone for SA20, but it's not one we've reached alone. It's been built on the belief of our six franchises, who bought into this vision from the very first ball and have backed it every season since; the players, both local and international, who chose to be part of something new and helped shape what SA20 has become; the partners who bought into the dream when it was just that - a dream; and the fans, who have shown up season in and season out and made this league theirs. As we head into Season 5, we carry that same belief with us, and we can't wait to keep building on it together."
The first four editions have also produced two champion teams. Sunrisers Eastern Cape have won three titles, lifting the trophy in 2023, 2024 and 2026, while MI Cape Town claimed their maiden championship in 2025.
As Season 5 approaches, South Africa will once again be able to watch some of South Africa’s biggest cricketing names in action, with David Miller, Kagiso Rabada, Aiden Markram, Lungi Ngidi and Ryan Rickelton among the local stars set to feature. The competition's international appeal will also be on full display, with the likes of Jos Buttler, Sunil Narine, Rashid Khan, Phil Salt and Mitchell Marsh among the global stars expected to take part.
NEXT GEN STARS AND WORLD'S BEST
"The combination of international stars, Proteas players and South Africa's emerging talent has been one of the defining features of Betway SA20, with the competition providing a platform for the country's next generation to perform alongside some of the world's best," Smith added.
More exciting players will be added to the Season 5 roster at the Player Auction taking place in Johannesburg on 7 October. There are 19 player slots available and a maximum of R35.025 million on hand to spend among the four teams. Durban’s Super Giants and Paarl Royals have already completed their 19-player squads and will not be participating in the Auction.
The festivities will begin at the iconic St George's Park in Gqeberha on 17 January 2027, when defending champions Sunrisers Eastern Cape host Pretoria Capitals in a repeat of last season's final. The competition will then take fans on a month-long journey across South Africa, with the six franchises once again competing for the coveted Betway SA20 trophy.
With tickets for Betway SA20 matches always in high demand, fans are encouraged to pre-register for tickets to ensure they are among the first to receive access when tickets go on sale. Tickets for Season 5 will go on sale on 5 November 2026 and will be available on the SA20 website and at the six stadium ticket offices.
"What we have seen over the past four seasons has shown us that the love for cricket has always been there. Betway SA20 has created a platform for world-class cricket, new talent and unforgettable fan experiences. As we enter our fifth season, we are excited to continue building on the legacy and introducing new innovations that will deliver memorable spectator experiences," Smith concluded.