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Friday, April 19, 2024
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In a dazzling display of cricket prowess at Centurion, the Pretoria Capitals and Sunrisers Eastern Cape set the stage ablaze with a nail-biting Betway SA20 showdown, filled with dramatic twists and turns that left spectators on the edge of their seats.

In a dazzling display of cricket prowess at Centurion, the Pretoria Capitals and Sunrisers Eastern Cape set the stage ablaze with a nail-biting Betway SA20 showdown, filled with dramatic twists and turns that left spectators on the edge of their seats.

Facing a challenging pitch, the Capitals, after being put into bat, initially struggled, posting a modest 125. Yet, like a Phoenix rising from the ashes, their bowling unit staged a remarkable comeback, restricting the Sunrisers to 122/9 and securing a thrilling victory by a razor-thin margin of three runs.

This win holds profound significance for the Capitals, who were defeated by the Sunrisers in last season's inaugural final and faced a humiliating bowling attack earlier this week, being bowled out for a mere 52.

More than just a triumph, this victory resurrects the Capitals' Season 2 campaign, lifting Wayne Parnell's team from the basement of the log for the first time this season.

The match hung in the balance until the very last ball, with the Sunrisers requiring four runs for victory. Despite a six off the fourth ball in the final over, Capitals seamer Daryn Dupavillon maintained his composure, delivering a full delivery that flummoxed Sunrisers all-rounder Liam Dawson attempting a ramp shot.

Dawson, who had earlier injected hope into the Sunrisers' innings, striking two sixes on the grass bank, found himself caught by spectator Aidan Evetts, the fifth spectator to claim a share of the Betway SA20 Catch R2 Million competition.

Wayne Parnell (3/33) initiated the Sunrisers' collapse when they seemed poised for victory at 72/4 in the 14th over. Removing both Patrick Kruger and Marco Jansen in a single over, the skipper resurrected his team's fortunes.

Leg-spinner Adil Rashid (3/30) replicated the magic, dismissing Tristan Stubbs (35) and Beyers Swanepoel in a double-wicket over. The Sunrisers lost five wickets for a mere 30 runs during this period before Dawson's late assault reignited hope.

The Capitals' innings mirrored the ebullience of the match, with Jansen (3/27) and Dan Worrall (2/29) causing damage alongside three run-outs. A crucial 52-run partnership between Shane Dadswell (24) and Jimmy Neesham (27) ultimately propelled the Capitals to a competitive and triumphant total.
[Submitted by Kevin Rademeyer]


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South Africa, January 25, 2024 - The much-anticipated Calabash South Africa is on the horizon, set to unfold at DHL Stadium, Cape Town, and FNB Stadium, Johannesburg.

South Africa, January 25, 2024 - The much-anticipated Calabash South Africa is on the horizon, set to unfold at DHL Stadium, Cape Town, and FNB Stadium, Johannesburg. In an exhilarating announcement, Big Concerts has added South African sensation Shekhinah and The Groove Yard to the line-up, promising an unparalleled concert experience.

As the largest international summer concert, Calabash South Africa is gearing up to be a musical extravaganza, featuring chart-topping artists from around the world. Here's a glimpse of what concert-goers can expect:

The Groove Yard: A Sonic Wonderland[

Enter the vibrant world of Calabash SA, where the rhythm never falters, and the energy is infectious. The newly unveiled addition, The Groove Yard, offers an electrifying space pulsating with extraordinary talent. In Cape Town, immerse yourself in the musical prowess of Stashe, Dwson, Das Kapital, and Dean Fuel. Meanwhile, DJ Buhle, Abby Nurock, Roz, and Kyle Cassim will captivate Johannesburg, ensuring an unforgettable experience at Calabash South Africa.

Headliners Galore: A Musical Dream

Calabash South Africa is not just the summer's biggest concert; it's a haven for music lovers. Headlined by Grammy Award-winning pop-rock royalty Maroon 5, the event features performances by international sensations like Keane, Meduza, Ava Max, Will Linley, Shekinah, Lloyiso, Sunset Sweetshop, and Timo ODV in Cape Town and Johannesburg.

Maroon 5's Chart-Topping Hits: An Unforgettable Night

With Adam Levine's enthralling vocals, Maroon 5 promises a night to remember with chart-topping hits like "Moves like Jagger," "Sugar," "Payphone," and "Girls Like You."

Keane's 20th Anniversary Celebration: A Pianistic Journey

British band Keane, celebrating the 20th anniversary of their acclaimed debut album "Hopes and Fears," will enchant the audience with piano-driven pop-rock hits like "Somewhere Only We Know" and "Everybody's Changing."

Meduza's Global Dominance: Setting the Standard

In just two years, Meduza has become the most significant global streaming Italian artist, setting the benchmark for dance music worldwide. Their debut release, "Piece of Your Heart," has amassed over 2 billion streams and secured a top 10 spot in charts in 20 countries.

Ava Max's Electrifying Performance: Pop Sensation

Chart-topping pop sensation Ava Max, known for electrifying performances and powerhouse vocals, is anticipated to set the stage ablaze with hits like "Sweet but Psycho" and "Kings & Queens."

Local Talent and Rising Stars: A Distinctive Flavor

South Africa-born Will Linley brings a unique touch to the line-up, combining raw emotion with saccharine melodies. Acclaimed South African musician Lloyiso will showcase his soulful voice and heartfelt lyrics, establishing himself as a rising star.

The Rise of Sunset Sweatshop: A South African Storm

Since the release of their debut single "Move It," Sunset Sweatshop has stormed the South African music industry. Following positive critical reception and multiple award nominations, the band's success has soared.

I Make Beats - Timo ODV: Global Recognition

Timo ODV, with 80 million streams globally and 6x Platinum/Multi-Platinum records, brings his beat-making prowess to the stage, promising an unforgettable performance.

Suited Star – Shekhinah: A Musical Force

Shekhinah's electrifying musical journey has left an indelible mark on the global stage. Collaborating with international icons and recognized on Forbes Africa's "30 under 30" list for creatives, Shekhinah stands poised on the brink of greater heights.

VIP Experiences and Beyond: A Sensory Extravaganza

Calabash South Africa offers a range of VIP experiences, ensuring a premium and comfortable concert experience. Beyond the music, the event promises LED frame girls, towering stilt walkers, mimes, mikishi performers, pantsula dancers, acrobats, jugglers, and roaming festival glitter artists, creating a sensory feast that captivates, entertains, and leaves lasting memories.

Presented by Big Concerts, in association with Discovery Bank, Heineken, M-Net, 947, and KFM, Calabash South Africa is not just a concert; it's an experience you won't soon forget.

For complete tour and ticket information, visit Calabash South Africa's official website or follow them on social media:

Facebook: Calabash South Africa
Instagram: Calabash South Africa
Twitter: Calabash SA Fest
TikTok: @calabashsouthafrica
Book your tickets now at Calabash South Africa or Ticketmaster.co.za. Avoid purchasing tickets from Viagogo, as these may be unlawfully resold at multiple times the face value.


About Calabash South Africa:
Calabash South Africa is the ultimate international summer concert, featuring a star-studded line-up of world-renowned artists. The festival promises an unforgettable experience, celebrating the power of music at the largest venues on the African continent. For more information, visit Calabash South Africa's official website.
[Submitted by Kevin Rademeyer]


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Dream11 has been appointed as the official ‘Fantasy Sports Partner’ for the Betway SA20 Season 2 starting on 10 January 2024.This strategic partnership with Dream11, India's leading fantasy sports application with a user base of over 200 million Cricket fans in the largest cricket market in the world, marks a significant milestone in bringing together South Africa’s premier T20 tournament with the passion of cricket fans in India.

Dream11 has been appointed as the official ‘Fantasy Sports Partner’ for the Betway SA20 Season 2 starting on 10 January 2024.This strategic partnership with Dream11, India's leading fantasy sports application with a user base of over 200 million Cricket fans in the largest cricket market in the world, marks a significant milestone in bringing together South Africa’s premier T20 tournament with the passion of cricket fans in India.
India being a key strategic market, with six Indian Premier League (IPL) teams also owning teams in the SA20, the partnership with Dream11 unlocks an opportunity to connect with millions of cricket fans across the subcontinent.
“It’s a huge coup for us to welcome Dream11 to our stable as our ‘Fantasy Sports Partner’,”Betway SA20 League Commissioner, Graeme Smith said. “This partnership is the coming together of two dynamic platforms that share a commitment to delivering unparalleled entertainment to cricket fans. With Dream11’s extensive user base and influence in India, we see incredible potential to engage with fans and have a platform to enhance the engagement of fans with SA20.”

Speaking about the partnership, Vikrant Mudaliar, Chief Marketing Officer, Dream11 said: “Partnerships are core to our strategy and have played a key role in Dream11 becoming the world’s largest fantasy sports platform. We are excited to join forces with SA20, a league known for its thrilling and entertaining cricket. Through this partnership, we aim to reach new users and help them engage with the sport that they love. Together, we look forward to offering fans an unparalleled fantasy sports experience during the upcoming SA20 Season 2.”
Dream11, renowned for revolutionizing the way fans engage with their favourite sport, has become a household name in India. With over 200 million users, the platform has played a
pivotal role in developing the fantasy sports industry in the country. Dream11 is currently the lead sponsor of the Indian Men’s and Women’s National cricket team.

Betway SA20 Season 2 is set to kick off on January 10, 2024, with a blockbuster match between Sunrisers Eastern Cape and Joburg Super Kings at St George’s Park in Gqeberha. The world’s best cricketers will be on show including Jos Buttler, Kieron Pollard, Liam Livingstone, Nicholas Pooran, Moeen Ali and Romario Shepherd to name a few. Tickets for all round-robin matches, the Final and Playoffs are available for purchase on www.SA20.co.za

[Submitted by Kevin Rademeyer]


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The opening clash of the highly anticipated Betway SA20 Season 2 is set to unfold at St George’s Park this Wednesday, marking the start of what promises to be an enthralling tournament.

The opening clash of the highly anticipated Betway SA20 Season 2 is set to unfold at St George’s Park this Wednesday, marking the start of what promises to be an enthralling tournament.

Sunrisers Eastern Cape, the reigning champions, will face a significant challenge in their quest to defend their title as they square off against Joburg Super Kings. The clash holds added weight as the Super Kings seek to avenge their semifinal defeat to the Sunrisers at Centurion in the previous season.

The team from Johannesburg has tasted success at this iconic stadium before, triumphing in Gqeberha last season and securing victories in both group matches, including a win over the Sunrisers at the Wanderers.

This inaugural match pledges to be a thrilling spectacle, with both sides boasting an array of talented players that promise exciting matchups. Notably, both teams feature adept young fast bowlers, with Marco Jansen leading the attack for Sunrisers Eastern Cape, and Gerald Coetzee and Nandre Burger spearheading the JSK bowling unit.

Burger, eager to form a formidable opening bowling partnership with Coetzee, expressed his anticipation pending his teammate's recovery from a recent pelvic inflammation that sidelined him from the recent Test against India at Newlands.

The absence of the influential Roelof van der Merwe in Season 2 will be felt by the Sunrisers. However, coach Adrian Birrell strategically reinforced the team by bringing back Simon Harmer to the Eastern Cape. Harmer, known for his tenacity on the field, is expected to bring a competitive edge to the Sunrisers, having been part of the first trade in the League.

Despite the excitement surrounding the defending champions, Harmer emphasized the team's focus on winning the trophy this year rather than solely defending their title. He reflected on his cricketing journey, highlighting his affinity for Gqeberha, where his career took flight as a young player.

Unfortunately, the Sunrisers have encountered setbacks with the late withdrawals of Sisanda Magala and Craig Overton due to injury. Their absence has prompted the inclusion of hard-hitting all-rounder Patrick Kruger in the squad.

St George’s Park is expected to host a vibrant and lively atmosphere as witnessed during the previous season, with Grammy Award-winning Zakes Bantwini headlining the pre-match festivities supported by a blend of electronic dance music and violin by Veranda Panda.

The pre-match entertainment is scheduled to commence at 4:20 pm, leading up to the match kick-off at 5:30 pm. Gates will open at 2:30 pm, allowing fans early access ahead of the opening ceremony.
[Submitted by Kevin Rademeyer]


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In a sensational showcase of cricket brilliance, South Africa steamrolled India in a dominating display, securing a commanding win in the series opener at Supersport Park, Centurion.

In a sensational showcase of cricket brilliance, South Africa steamrolled India in a dominating display, securing a commanding win in the series opener at Supersport Park, Centurion.

The Proteas' triumph was spearheaded by the stunning performance of debutant left-arm pacer Nandre Burger, who left cricket enthusiasts awestruck with his impressive figures of 4-33. Supported by Kagiso Rabada's prowess with the ball and Marco Jansen's valuable contributions, India succumbed to a mere second-innings total of 131 runs, granting South Africa a resounding victory by an innings and 32 runs, elevating them to a 1-0 lead in the two-match series.

The 28-year-old Burger showcased his talent by clinching a remarkable match haul of 7-83, while Rabada's stellar performance secured 7-91 across both innings, highlighting his exceptional 5-59 in the first innings.

"We fell short in our quest for victory," expressed Indian skipper Rohit Sharma. "We couldn't capitalize on the favorable conditions with the ball and stumbled in our batting performance today. To conquer Tests overseas, a collective effort is vital, and regrettably, we couldn't deliver that. Our batsmen encountered challenges and struggled to adapt."

The Proteas' initial innings concluded at an imposing 408, primarily driven by Dean Elgar's monumental 185-run innings. India had earlier been dismissed for 245 in their first innings. Elgar, reflecting on his exceptional innings, remarked, "It was an extraordinary knock. I focused on playing patiently and sticking to the basics. Bagging 20 wickets was crucial... 'KG' (Rabada) was outstanding, and Burger showcased why he's a promising talent in South African cricket. Despite India's strength, we executed our game plan effectively."

India faced an uphill battle in their second innings, struggling right from the outset. Despite resistance from Shubman Gill and skipper Virat Kohli, the innings crumbled swiftly, concluding in just 34.1 overs across less than two sessions.
The disappointing batting display followed South Africa's modest addition of 16 runs to their first innings post-lunch. Skipper Temba Bavuma's sidelining due to a hamstring injury incurred during fielding resulted in his absence in the upcoming Cape Town Test. Zubayr Hamza joins the squad as cover, with Elgar assuming captaincy responsibilities.

Though Jasprit Bumrah displayed spirited bowling effort with 4-69, India couldn't halt South Africa's dominant performance, dampening their hopes of a series win away in South Africa.The two sides are poised for the second and
final Test at Newlands Cricket Stadium, starting on January 3, with South Africa eyeing a series victory to affirm their supremacy.
[Submitted by Kevin Rademeyer]


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In a groundbreaking move set to captivate the burgeoning cricket audience in North America, Betway SA20 Season 2 is gearing up for an exclusive showcase on Willow TV, announced Friday, December 29, 2023.

In a groundbreaking move set to captivate the burgeoning cricket audience in North America, Betway SA20 Season 2 is gearing up for an exclusive showcase on Willow TV, announced Friday, December 29, 2023. Willow TV, renowned for its comprehensive coverage of international cricket, joins an esteemed global lineup of broadcasters, including SuperSport (Sub-Saharan Africa), Viacom (India), Sky Sports (UK), FoxTel (Australasia), Estisalat (UAE), and ICC TV (worldwide), in presenting the highly anticipated 34-match tournament kicking off on January 10, 2024.

Amid the forthcoming ICC Men's T20 World Cup spotlighting the USA and Caribbean in the coming year, this partnership stands poised to enrapture the rapidly expanding cricket aficionados across the region. Graeme Smith, Betway SA20 League Commissioner, acknowledges the tremendous potential of this burgeoning market, hailing it as the opportune moment to unveil the much-awaited SA20 Season 2 to fervent fans.

"We are thrilled to collaborate with Willow TV in extending the thrill of Betway SA20 to cricket enthusiasts in North America. As the sport gains significant traction in this region, this exclusive broadcasting pact ensures fans become part of the charged ambiance of SA20 Season 2," remarked Smith.

Promising an electrifying viewing experience, Willow TV emerges as the perfect ally to showcase the dynamic and competitive universe of SA20 to a broader audience. Todd Myers, Chief Operating Officer of Willow TV, expressed pride in being designated as the official broadcaster of Betway SA20 in the USA and Canada.

"The inclusion of SA20 Season 2 in our lineup underscores our commitment to offering the finest in international and domestic cricket to our viewers. We eagerly anticipate highlighting the talent and thrill that this captivating league brings to the T20 format," said Myers.

Commencing January 10, 2024, cricket enthusiasts across North America can savor the excitement of SA20 Season 2, promising a showcase of top-tier cricketing talent, intense rivalries, and unparalleled entertainment. Through this collaboration, the League and Willow TV aim not only to engage existing fans but also to entice new cricket enthusiasts, fostering the sport's growth in the region.

The inaugural clash at St George’s Park on January 10 will witness Sunrisers Eastern Cape battling Joburg Super Kings in a month-long extravaganza. Tickets for league matches are available for purchase at www.sa20.co.za.
[Submitted by Kevin Rademeyer]


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Mark your calendars for January 10, 2024, as the highly anticipated return of Betway SA20 draws closer, promising a thrilling showcase of top-notch cricketing action.

Mark your calendars for January 10, 2024, as the highly anticipated return of Betway SA20 draws closer, promising a thrilling showcase of top-notch cricketing action. With Betway back as the title sponsor, the renowned sports betting and entertainment brand is all set to escalate the excitement with the revival of the Betway Catch R2 Million campaign.

Hailed as an unprecedented success in Season 1, the Betway Catch R2 Million campaign captured the imagination of fans, granting numerous lucky spectators a slice of the R2 million prize pool by catching a one-handed clean six during the exhilarating Betway SA20 matches.

Assembling some of the world's finest batsmen, South Africa's premier T20 cricket league is geared up to ignite Season 2, offering fans in the stands a significantly increased opportunity to net the life-changing catch.

Beyond the enthralling on-field clashes, match attendees are in for an amplified stadium experience, merging world-class cricket with stellar performances by top South African entertainment artists.

Graeme Smith, the Betway SA20 League Commissioner, emphasized the paramount importance of elevating fan engagement for the league's second edition. "Fan engagement is crucial for any spectacular sporting event, and the Betway Catch R2 Million competition epitomizes this," remarked Smith. "The excitement it generated among fans in Season 1 was unparalleled. Witnessing the fervor spread across stadiums and beyond was incredible, and having it return for Season 2 adds an extra layer of thrill to the game. It offers fans a unique chance to actively participate and vie for a life-altering reward. I'm excited to witness the catching action this season."

Mark Rowles, Betway's Head of Marketing, expressed eagerness at Betway's role in driving innovative initiatives that resonate with the brand's fervor for sports and fan involvement. "As proud sponsors of Betway SA20, we're thrilled to build on the triumph of the inaugural edition," Rowles shared. "The success of the Betway Catch R2 Million campaign in engaging fans at stadiums and viewers at home was remarkable. Bringing it back for Season 2 amplifies the excitement. We encourage fans to join in and increase their chances of winning big by registering a Betway account. Alongside the Catch R2 Million campaign, we're launching an exciting new promotion called 'Game of Zones' during the opening fixture week."

For Betway customers nationwide unable to attend matches, a thrilling opportunity awaits. They can predict the specific stadium zone where a clean, one-handed catch will be taken. Correct predictions offer customers a chance to win the same amount as live catch winners in the stadium.

Continuing the tradition from the previous season, Betway account holders stand to double their winnings if they catch a one-handed clean catch during the matches.

The Betway SA20 extravaganza spans from January 10 to February 10, 2024, across Cape Town, Pretoria, Durban, Gqeberha, Johannesburg, and Paarl. Kicking off the action at St George's Park in Gqeberha, defending champions Sunrisers Eastern Cape will face off against Joburg Super Kings on January 10. Tickets for these exhilarating matches are available at www.SA20.co.za. Gear up for an unforgettable T20 cricket experience!
[Submitted by Kevin Rademeyer]


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Big Concerts, in a joint effort with Michael Bublé and his team, made a major announcement today regarding the highly-anticipated "Higher Tour." Originally set for 2024, the tour has been postponed, marking a difficult but thoughtful decision aimed at granting Michael a well-deserved break from his demanding tour schedule.

Big Concerts, in a joint effort with Michael Bublé and his team, made a major announcement today regarding the highly-anticipated "Higher Tour." Originally set for 2024, the tour has been postponed, marking a difficult but thoughtful decision aimed at granting Michael a well-deserved break from his demanding tour schedule.

The captivating "Higher Tour" is now rescheduled to enthral South African audiences in 2025. This hiatus is not just a breather but a chance for Michael to invest precious moments with his family and reignite his creative spark, ensuring an unparalleled musical experience that South Africans have been eagerly anticipating.

We're committed to keeping South African fans in the loop throughout the upcoming year. Expect to be fully engaged and informed about all updates regarding the rescheduled tour. And the excitement peaks as we await the unveiling of the brand new 2025 tour dates, promising an unforgettable journey into the world of Michael Bublé's music.

Michael Bublé and Big Concerts extend heartfelt gratitude to their South African fans for their unwavering support and understanding. The anticipation for the "Higher Tour" in 2025 is brewing, and rest assured, it will absolutely be worth every moment of the wait. Get ready to join us as we anticipate an extraordinary musical odyssey with Michael Bublé. Stay tuned for more updates!
[Submitted by Kevin Rademeyer]


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As the countdown to the exhilarating Betway SA20 Season 2 kick-off begins, SuperSport is gearing up to deliver an electrifying viewing experience that promises to redefine the cricket-watching landscape.

As the countdown to the exhilarating Betway SA20 Season 2 kick-off begins, SuperSport is gearing up to deliver an electrifying viewing experience that promises to redefine the cricket-watching landscape. Set to commence on January 10, 2024, at St George's Park in Gqeberha, Season 2 is all set to surpass its successful debut with a multitude of innovations and immersive elements.

Anticipating an explosive start following its inaugural triumph, SuperSport, in collaboration with its partners, is geared up to introduce a series of pioneering innovations. These advancements are meticulously designed to enthrall television audiences and fans, elevating their viewing encounters to uncharted realms of excitement and engagement.

Picture this: the Com Cam, offering a fixed view of the commentary box, boasting renowned former international cricketers delivering expert analysis. But that's not all. SuperSport's innovative blend of match-day and on-screen experiences includes the Dug Out, a boundary-level camera bridging the gap between viewers and players/coaches near the ropes. Not forgetting the iconic Couch, where commentators, fans, and celebrities converge, creating an interactive cricket-watching extravaganza.

However, SuperSport isn't just aiming for the stands. They're bringing the stadium experience right to your living room. Match Official technology will grant viewers a peek into the live communication among umpires during matches - an unprecedented facet for Betway SA20. Notably, audiences won't just hear the third umpire but also the on-field umpires' direct exchanges.

Rendani Ramovha, CEO of SuperSport, expressed sheer delight at the prospect of sharing unparalleled experiences with both stadium attendees and viewers alike. "SuperSport is upping the ante from Season 1 to match the pulsating action of Betway SA20. Whether you're tuned in via DStv Stream or Premium, we're ensuring an enthralling experience, rivaling the excitement of being at the venue itself," said Ramovha.

In a summer brimming with cricketing excitement, SuperSport is all set to offer live on-field player tracking, gamified player-naming features, and the revolutionary BuggyQam - a mobile camera placing viewers right amidst the cricketing action.

Moreover, the inclusion of animations featuring the iconic Big 5 wildlife adds a uniquely South African flavor to the League. Expect amusing illustrations of dismissals, fours, and sixes, amplifying the viewer experience.

League Commissioner Graeme Smith echoed the sentiments, emphasizing the joint efforts of Betway SA20 and SuperSport in elevating viewer engagement and connection. "Innovation is at our core, and we aim to redefine cricket viewing while fostering an immersive platform for fans. Whether you're at home or in the stadium, brace yourself for an unforgettable experience," stated Smith.

SuperSport is breaking barriers further by offering match commentary in three official South African languages: English, Afrikaans, and isiXhosa, ensuring inclusivity and accessibility for diverse viewers.

Get ready for a cricket season that transcends boundaries - an immersive, exhilarating spectacle that promises to captivate audiences like never before.
[Submitted by Kevin Rademeyer]


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In a triumphant revival reminiscent of a prodigal son's return, Dave Matthews Band shattered a ten-year hiatus in spectacular fashion at the Sunbet Arena in Pretoria this past Sunday.

In a triumphant revival reminiscent of a prodigal son's return, Dave Matthews Band shattered a ten-year hiatus in spectacular fashion at the Sunbet Arena in Pretoria this past Sunday. While the band's performances in the Republic have been infrequent, their recent show proved worth the wait, leaving audiences spellbound with a musical extravaganza spanning over three electrifying hours.
Seemingly lured by the festive season and perhaps drawn by connections to friends and family, the band, known for their jam-packed performances, made up for lost time with an unrelenting display of their expansive sound. Their songs morphed into sonic journeys, traversing various musical landscapes within the same composition.
The concert unfolded with a vibrant explosion of rippling trumpet and saxophone solos from Rashawn Ross and Jeff Coffin, igniting a fervent rendition of "Fool in the Rain." This evolved into a progressive, jazz-rock symphony, marking merely the inception of the night's extended improvisations. Carter Beauford's dynamic drumming resonated crisply, intertwining seamlessly with Stefan Lessard's playful basslines, providing a stable foundation throughout the evening's performance.

Despite their monumental success globally, Dave Matthews Band has always divided audiences, harboring a devoted yet polarized fan base. Surprisingly, the concert witnessed a lower turnout, leaving the upper seating levels unoccupied—a stark contrast to their sold-out Dome concert, a decade ago.
However, the band's influence is undeniable. U2, Metallica and Dave Matthews Band are among the top-touring artists of the last 40 years. That is according to concert industry publication Pollstar, which tallied the best-selling and highest-grossing artists in its 40-year history, specifically between July 7, 1980, and July 1, 2022. U2 is number 1 on the list for most tickets sold, with a total of 26,178,043. DMB follows at number 2 with 23,279,056. The talent in the versatile seven-piece unit is impossible to deny and when they are in full swing, like they were on Sunday.

Although the band's amalgamation of genres, rooted in rock, funk, blues, and jazz, would seem more at home in vibrant locales like New Orleans, instead of Pretoria, they were well received. Their free-spirited, improvisational style received an additional boost with a cameo appearance by local legend Vusi Mahlasela, known as the Voice of South Africa, adding a spirited flair to their rendition of "Everyday."

While their setlist featured fan-favorites like "The Space Between," "Crush," "Ant Marching," and "So Much," notable omissions of chart-toppers like "Crash into Me" and " Dont Drink The Water" left some concert-goers disappointed. However, this exclusion revealed Matthews' evolution as an artist, his concerns now revolving around impermanence and liberation, reflected in the band's newer material, such as “ Madman’s Eyes”, a song about guns in his native USA.

Remarkably, the band's spontaneity shines through in their ever-changing nightly setlists, diverging from the conventional pre-production patterns. Embracing improvisation mere hours before the show, each performance becomes a unique experience, a testament to their artistry and dedication to providing fans with an unparalleled live encounter.

In collaboration with Big Concerts, Dave Matthews Band's triumphant return to South Africa was nothing short of a musical odyssey, a testament to their unwavering commitment to evolving their craft while delivering unforgettable live experiences to their fervent fanbase.

Submitted by Kevin Rademeyer ( Media Manager)

[Submitted by Kevin Rademeyer]


     

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