Betway SA20 has firmly established itself as one of the most supported live sporting events in South Africa, with Season 3 delivering record-breaking numbers across stadium attendance, TV viewership, and digital engagement.
Massive crowd turnout and sold-out venues highlight fan enthusiasm
The League recorded a 70% increase in sold-out matches, culminating in a sold-out Final for the third consecutive year—making this the most-attended Betway SA20 season ever. More than 400,000 fans passed through the gates of six stadiums across South Africa.
MI Cape Town’s home ground, Newlands, achieved a historic milestone by selling out all five home fixtures, reflecting growing support for local franchises.
Another key moment came when the League sold its 1 millionth ticket during the clash between Joburg Super Kings and Sunrisers Eastern Cape at the Wanderers.
Fans report top-tier experience and high return intent
According to the League’s annual fan survey, 93% rated their in-stadium experience as ‘excellent,’ while 90% said they were likely to attend Season 4 of SA20.
Viewership hits new heights across local and global markets
Data from Nielsen Sports SA shows a 47% increase in audience reach on SuperSport. The opening game between Sunrisers Eastern Cape and MI Cape Town was the most watched opening fixture in League history.
Final viewership jumped 72% compared to Season 2, as MI Cape Town claimed the title. Internationally, viewership rose 37% across India, the UK, the US, and Pan-African markets—signaling SA20’s emergence as a top-tier global T20 league.
Digital channels see exponential growth
Digital metrics also reflected the League’s growing brand. Betway SA20 saw a 62% rise in social media followers, 87% growth in franchise team followers, and a 93% increase in video views. Website traffic surged by 233% over Season 2.
Media coverage booms in South Africa and India
There was a 30% increase in media value within South Africa. In India, that growth was even more dramatic—media value jumped 96% and print stories surged by 231%, pointing to strong interest in SA20 among Indian cricket fans.
“Season three of the Betway SA20 has been an absolute game-changer,” said League Commissioner Graeme Smith. “We have really made a mark as one of the leading sport and entertainment brands in the country.”
Development programs and community initiatives grow in impact
Season 3 also focused on youth and community development. The League’s learnership program provided experience to 26 young professionals, including 4 Laureus YES program recipients and 6 photography students.
The League raised R630,000 for the Laureus Sport for Good Foundation, which supports youth through sports programs addressing poverty, drug abuse, and other social challenges.
Schools SA20 inspires future cricket stars
The inaugural Schools SA20 competition drew entries from over 600 schools, including a national girls’ tournament. The finals, held at the Cricket SA High Performance Centre in Pretoria, crowned Steyn City School (Johannesburg) and Bishops Diocesan College (Cape Town) as champions.
As part of the League’s commitment to youth cricket, two promising Grade 7 cricketers received full scholarships to the winning schools, covering all educational and boarding costs.
“The Schools SA20 was an excellent platform for the next generation in its debut season,” said Smith. “Planning is progressing well for Season 4 in the new holiday window.”
Season 4 set for December 2025 launch
The fourth edition of Betway SA20 kicks off on 26 December 2025, with fixture announcements, player signings, and auction details to be shared soon.
