The second season of the Betway SA20 continued to build on its Season 1 success reflecting strong growth across its broadcast, digital engagement, and stadium attendance figures. Sunrisers Eastern Cape clinched the title at a sold-out Newlands final, capping another season marked by highly competitive cricket, packed crowds, and unprecedented fan engagement.
The season saw 34 thrilling matches, with standout performances such as Will Jacks' record-breaking century of 41 balls and Heinrich Klaasen's explosive batting which ultimately earned him the title of the Betway SA20 Player of the Season. The Betway Catch R2 Million contest saw a surge in sixes to 454, adding to the league's excitement with 8 winners sharing in the prize money.
At the venues, the league's popularity soared with 10 sold-out matches and 70 per cent of all tickets across the season sold. According to the survey conducted with fans, the stadium experience continues to be a drawcard with 96 per cent of the fans rating this as ‘very enjoyable’ and the competitive cricket also featuring as a key driver for fan’s interest in watching and attending matches.
Global viewership across 9 broadcasters including India, the UK, the US and Australia increased by 21 per cent, reinforcing Betway SA20’s status as a top T20 franchise league. Locally on SuperSport the league recorded a 24 per cent increase in viewership, drawing an audience that included a 46 per cent female viewership.
The social following for the League more than doubled in Season 2 while video views, website visits and engagements also recorded increases of more than 100 per cent.
Media coverage globally was extensive generating a PR value of R4 billion and reaching a cumulative audience of 75.5 billion. In South Africa, Betway SA20 attracted non-traditional news coverage with a media value of R64 million.
League Commissioner Graeme Smith hailed the season's success, crediting fans, partners, players and stakeholders for their support.
“We are proud to celebrate the success of Season 2 of the Betway SA20. The continued growth in our viewership, following, engagement and attendance numbers reflects growing interest for both the product and the excellent cricket that was showcased this past season. We once again thank all the fans, players, partners and broadcasters, franchises and stakeholders for their support which led to another successful season.”
Cricket Excellence: Season 2 featured four centuries (Kyle Verreynne, Jordan Hermann, Rassie van der Dussen and Will Jacks), 49 half-centuries, and a total of 454 sixes by the batters, while on the bowling front, there were 3 5-wicket hauls (Noor Ahmad, Junior Dala and Marco Jansen). Combined, this showcased the competitive cricket with 10 thrilling last-over finishes.
Record Attendance: The season saw a surge in fan interest, with 10 sold-out matches with 98 per cent of fans expressing satisfaction with the stadium experience.
Global Viewership: Globally, Betway SA20 recorded a 21 per cent increase in broadcaster viewership, continuing to solidify its status as a popular global sporting event.
SuperSport: On SuperSport, the league witnessed a 24 per cent increase in viewership and a 26 per cent increase in viewing time across the Season 2 audience with 46 per cent of viewers being female.
Digital Engagement: Season 2 saw unprecedented digital engagement, with 75 million video views and an 882 per cent increase in social engagements during the Final compared to Season 1.
Media Coverage: Extensive media coverage generated 18 000 media items, amplifying the league's reach and impact.
PR Value: The league's success translated into a remarkable global PR value of R4 billion, enhancing its brand exposure and reputation.
Sold-Out Final: The Final, hosted at Newlands Cricket Ground in Season 2, was sold out for the second consecutive year, highlighting the league's appeal as South Africa's premier T20 cricket competition.
Social Impact: Betway SA20 continued its commitment to social impact, raising R900 000 for Laureus Sport for Good Foundation South Africa to support community development initiatives.