The highly anticipated SA20 tournament is set to return for its third season, running from January 9 to February 8, 2025. Inspired by the Indian Premier League (IPL), this competition has become South Africa’s premier T20 franchise league, showcasing some of the best cricket talent from the country and beyond. With six teams battling for the title, Sunrisers Eastern Cape will aim to defend their championship crown under the leadership of Aiden Markram, a familiar name for IPL enthusiasts.
Legendary South African bowler Allan Donald, who serves as an SA20 Ambassador, shared his excitement about the upcoming season during a media interaction. Donald highlighted three South African pacers he believes will make a significant impact in the tournament and lavished praise on one young talent with IPL experience.
The Pacers to Watch
Donald revealed his anticipation for three bowlers: Eathan Bosch, Codi Yusuf, and Kwena Maphaka.
Eathan Bosch: Representing the Pretoria Capitals, the 26-year-old right-arm pacer has been a consistent performer in domestic cricket. Bosch was the leading wicket-taker for the Dolphins during the 2018-19 CSA 4-Day Franchise Series and has since amassed over 100 wickets in 40 first-class matches. In T20 cricket, he has 57 dismissals in 58 games, and Donald expressed pride in Bosch finally earning a call-up to the South African national team.
Codi Yusuf: Playing for the Paarl Royals, Yusuf is another exciting right-arm pacer. With 80 wickets in 27 first-class matches and 36 dismissals in 39 T20s, Yusuf has established himself as a reliable performer in multiple formats.
Kwena Maphaka: The 18-year-old sensation, also from Paarl, is generating immense excitement ahead of the tournament. Known for his calm demeanor and resilience, Maphaka made his IPL debut with the Mumbai Indians in 2024 and is set to represent the Rajasthan Royals in the upcoming IPL season. Despite limited opportunities, Donald believes Maphaka has a bright future and describes him as a “freakishly talented” bowler.
Donald’s High Praise for Maphaka
Donald spoke passionately about Maphaka, emphasizing his potential to be a standout player in the SA20.
“Kwena Maphaka is an exceptional talent. The whole of Paarl is thrilled to have him. He has this incredible ability to stay calm under pressure and fight through challenging moments. I think he’ll be a key player this season, and I can’t wait to see him shine,” Donald said.
A Milestone for Dinesh Karthik
Adding to the excitement, former Indian wicketkeeper-batsman Dinesh Karthik will become the first Indian player to feature in the SA20. Representing the Paarl Royals as an overseas player, Karthik will join a star-studded lineup that includes David Miller, Lungi Ngidi, Andile Phehlukwayo, and the aforementioned Yusuf and Maphaka. This marks Karthik’s first tournament since his retirement from international cricket.
SA20 Season 3: A Must-Watch Event
With a mix of experienced players and emerging talent, the third edition of the SA20 promises thrilling cricket action. Fans can look forward to an exciting season as the tournament unfolds from January 9 to February 8, 2025.
