Betway SA20 has celebrated its 1 millionth ticket holder at the match between Joburg Super Kings and Sunrisers Eastern Cape at Wanderers on Sunday.
This remarkable achievement is testament to the unwavering support of the fans who have flocked to stadiums in record numbers to be part of South Africa’s premier T20 Franchise league.
Season 3 of the competition has already witnessed 9 sold out matches, a record attendance rate and another sold out Final, to go with exceptional cricket on show across the 21 matches played.
"It’s a proud day for us as we celebrate our millionth ticket, this is an incredible moment for the League halfway through the third season,” said Graeme Smith, League Commissioner. "I would like to extend my sincerest gratitude to each and every fan who has come out to support the Betway SA20, we wouldn’t be here without the passionate fans turning out at all the matches.”
The millionth ticket belonged to Melissa van Olst, who purchased tickets for the grass embankment for herself and her family. Van Olst is an avid JSK fan and has attended most home matches this season.
“I can't put it into words how I feel, it’s crazy. I didn't expect it at all, so I'm still soaking it all in,” she said at an almost sold-out Wanderers on Sunday.
“Yes, I've bought plenty of tickets for the Joburg Super Kings matches. We've been coming since season one, two and now three and we keep coming back just for the love of the game. We love cricket. We love the SA20, the vibe is crazy, it’s incredible!
"It's insane and sometimes you can get lucky in life," she said about being the millionth ticket holder. "I can't believe I bought the millionth ticket. It is crazy and you can get lucky in life sometimes. So yes, go buy your ticket. I enjoy the chilled relaxed vibe of it and you can enjoy the game of cricket here as well.”
Van Olst will be treated to a VIP trip for 2 to the Final, a VIP experience to a Springboks or Betway Premiership match courtesy of Betway, and gift hampers from rain, Zoho, DP World and R1000 voucher and product for a year from Switch.
The millionth ticket comes during a bumper weekend of action as the race to the Playoffs starts to take shape. The top two teams will battle it out in Qualifier 1 on Tuesday, 4 February at St George’s Park, with the teams finishing third and fourth in action in The Eliminator at Centurion on Wednesday 5 February. Qualifier 2 on Thursday 6 February at Centurion will feature the losing team from Qualifier 1 and the winner of The Eliminator. The winner of Qualifier 2 will join the winner of Qualifier 1 in the Final on Saturday 8 February at Wanderers. Tickets for the matches are available at www.SA20.co.za