England Women showcased their dominance by completing a 3-0 whitewash over South Africa in the T20I series, capping their performance with a resounding nine-wicket victory at SuperSport Park. Despite the disappointment, individual performances like Nondumiso Shangase’s gritty 31 offer a glimmer of hope as the Proteas Women turn their attention to the ODI series.
England’s Ruthless Efficiency
Electing to field, England’s bowlers quickly asserted their authority, dismissing South Africa for 125. Charlie Dean (3/26) delivered a clinical spell, with Lauren Bell (2/24) and Lauren Filer (1/28) adding to the pressure. The Proteas struggled in the powerplay, losing four wickets for just 42 runs.
A brief resurgence came from Suné Luus (21) and Annerie Dercksen (19), but it was Shangase who steadied the ship alongside Nadine de Klerk (19) in a vital 52-run partnership for the sixth wicket. Once the duo fell, England wrapped up the innings with ease.
In reply, England’s top order made light work of the chase. Danni Wyatt-Hodge smashed a rapid 53 off 31 balls, supported by Maia Bouchier (35) and Sophia Dunkley (24*). England sealed victory in just 11.3 overs, with Wyatt-Hodge delivering the final blow.
Nat Sciver-Brunt’s remarkable series, where she accumulated 126 runs without being dismissed, earned her the Player of the Series award.
Proteas Women Look to Regroup
Though outclassed, the Proteas found positives in Shangase’s composed batting under pressure. Reflecting on her career-best score, she praised her partnership with de Klerk for boosting her confidence.
“It wasn’t easy, but Nadine kept reminding me to believe in myself,” Shangase shared. “That support helped me stay calm and play my game.”
Turning the Tide: The ODI Challenge
The Proteas Women now shift focus to the ODI series, starting in Kimberley on Wednesday. Shangase believes the team has the skills to challenge England but stressed the importance of rediscovering their belief.
“We’ve beaten them before,” she said. “We know what we’re capable of—it’s about executing under pressure and playing to our strengths.”
The upcoming three-match ODI series offers a fresh opportunity to regroup and deliver a stronger performance. With games in Kimberley, Durban, and Potchefstroom, the Proteas will aim to capitalize on familiar conditions.
Key Fixtures Ahead
1st ODI: December 4 – Kimberley Oval
2nd ODI: December 8 – Kingsmead, Durban (Black Day ODI)
3rd ODI: December 11 – JB Marks Oval, Potchefstroom
The series will be followed by a historic four-day Test in Bloemfontein, marking a landmark moment for women’s cricket in South Africa.
As the Proteas Women prepare for the next challenge, they’ll look to draw strength from their home crowd and past achievements to spark a turnaround against a formidable England side.
[Submitted by Estea Rademeyer]
South Africa stormed to a 233-run victory over Sri Lanka in the first Test at Kingsmead, Durban, courtesy of Marco Jansen’s career-defining bowling display. The 24-year-old pacer claimed 11 wickets for 86 runs, the best match figures by a fast bowler at the venue, as the Proteas took a 1-0 lead in the two-match series.
Jansen Leads the Charge
Jansen’s dominance began in Sri Lanka’s first innings, where his devastating 7/13 bundled the visitors out for a paltry 42, their lowest Test total. He then delivered a decisive 4/73 in the second innings, sealing South Africa’s first Test win over Sri Lanka in Durban since 2000.
“It’s a dream come true for any bowler to take 10 wickets in a match,” Jansen said after the match. “Getting 11 wickets here is something I’ll always cherish.”
Proteas Build on Early Momentum
After a modest first-innings total of 191, South Africa took control with a powerful second-innings batting performance. Captain Temba Bavuma led by example, scoring a commanding 113, supported by Tristan Stubbs, who struck an impressive 122. Their centuries helped South Africa declare on 366/5, setting Sri Lanka an imposing target of 516.
Bavuma’s form, which included a vital 70 in the first innings, proved pivotal. His leadership has been instrumental in South Africa’s resurgence in Test cricket.
Sri Lanka Show Resistance
Chasing an enormous target, Sri Lanka put up a spirited fight on the fourth morning. Dinesh Chandimal (83) and Dhananjaya de Silva (59) combined for a 95-run stand, frustrating the South African bowlers. De Silva’s attacking half-century came off just 66 balls, while Chandimal displayed patience and resolve.
However, De Silva’s dismissal, caught at midwicket off Keshav Maharaj, sparked a collapse. Chandimal followed soon after, and Jansen wrapped up the innings by bowling Asitha Fernando, securing South Africa’s emphatic win.
WTC Final Hopes Alive
This victory marks South Africa’s fourth consecutive Test win, keeping their World Test Championship (WTC) final hopes alive. With three matches remaining – one against Sri Lanka and two at home against Pakistan – South Africa must win at least two to book their place at Lord’s in June 2025.
The Proteas’ dominance in Durban showcased their all-round strength, with contributions from both the batters and bowlers. As they look ahead to the second Test, South Africa’s confidence is high, buoyed by a captain in form and a bowling attack firing on all cylinders.
Jansen’s heroics, coupled with Bavuma’s leadership, highlight a team ready to compete on the world stage. The dream of a WTC final appearance remains very much alive.
[Submitted by Estea Rademeyer]
South African cricket has hit an economic six with Betway SA20 Season 2, which delivered a staggering R4.3 billion boost to the nation’s GDP. This remarkable achievement, detailed in an independent report, exceeds the R4.1 billion economic impact of the inaugural season, solidifying the tournament’s reputation as a cornerstone of both sport and socio-economic progress.
Cricket with a Cause
The 34-match competition, held across six cities from January 10 to February 9, 2024, demonstrated the profound ripple effect of sport on South Africa’s economy. Local businesses thrived, jobs were created, and growth was spurred, offering a glimpse of sport's transformative power.
Key findings from the report reveal:
8,077 annualized employment opportunities created
R1.5 billion in direct expenditure
R4.3 billion contribution to GDP
R998 million to household income
League Commissioner Graeme Smith celebrated the achievement, saying:
“The economic impact of Betway SA20 Season 2 underscores the League's growing influence on South Africa's economy and skills development. While our primary focus is delivering exceptional cricket, it is deeply rewarding to see the broader positive impact on our communities.”
Smith emphasized the League’s role in preparing South Africa for future global events, including the 2027 Cricket World Cup, highlighting investments in skill development and infrastructure.
Fan Frenzy and Record-Breaking Attendance
Season 2 was a showcase of South Africa’s passion for world-class cricket and entertainment. Spectators turned out in droves, with over 380,000 attendees across all six venues—an increase from Season 1. Highlights included 10 sold-out matches and a sold-out final for the second consecutive year. The League also drew nearly 6,000 international visitors and 38,000 inter-provincial spectators, underscoring its global appeal.
The League’s broadcast and digital footprint reached unprecedented heights, with Betway SA20 becoming the most-viewed event on SuperSport’s Premium Channel.
Looking Ahead: Empowering Future Generations
As the League looks to Season 3, there is a renewed focus on youth development and skills training. Initiatives include:
A significant intake of interns across operational departments, including six from the Laureus YES Programme.
Photography and digital internships.
Current cricketers shadowing the cricket operations team.
The launch of the Schools SA20 competition for over 600 boys’ and girls’ schools nationwide.
What’s Next?
Betway SA20 Season 3 kicks off on January 9, 2025, with defending champions Sunrisers Eastern Cape hosting MI Cape Town at St. George’s Park in Gqeberha. Fans can secure their tickets now at www.SA20.co.za.
As South Africa gears up for another thrilling season, Betway SA20 continues to prove that cricket is more than a game—it’s a catalyst for economic growth, community upliftment, and global excellence.
[Submitted by Kevin Rademeyer]
South African rugby’s golden year continued in glittering fashion at the 2024 World Rugby Awards in Monaco, where Pieter-Steph du Toit was crowned World Men’s 15s Player of the Year, becoming the first Springbok to win the accolade twice. The 32-year-old flanker previously claimed the honor in 2019, and this year’s triumph solidifies his legendary status in the sport.
Du Toit’s recognition capped an extraordinary evening for South African rugby, with seven Springboks earning spots in the World Rugby Men’s 15s Dream Team: Du Toit, Eben Etzebeth (lock), Cheslin Kolbe (wing), Ox Nche (prop), Malcolm Marx (hooker), and midfield stalwarts Damian de Allende and Jesse Kriel.
Springboks Lead Global Recognition
The awards reflected a year of dominance for the Springboks, who achieved an 84.6% win rate and added titles such as the Castle Lager Rugby Championship, the Nelson Mandela Challenge Plate, the Freedom Cup, and the Prince William Cup to their trophy cabinet.
SA Rugby President Mark Alexander praised the team, stating:"This recognition is a testament to the hard work and resilience of our players, coaches, and management. Pieter-Steph’s achievement of being named World Player of the Year twice is extraordinary, and having seven Boks in the Dream Team underscores the strength of our squad."
Other Highlights from Monaco
Breakthrough Player of the Year: New Zealand’s Wallace Sititi edged out South African flyhalf Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu, showcasing the bright future of global rugby.
Coach of the Year: Jérôme Daret of France, who led the men’s sevens team to Olympic gold in Paris, received the honor.
Men’s Sevens Dream Team: Blitzboks captain Selvyn Davids represented South Africa in the elite lineup.
Rugby for All Award: SA Rugby’s The Bag That Builds initiative, which transforms tournament waste into building materials for housing, was celebrated for its impact on sustainability and community upliftment.
Du Toit’s Historic Achievement
Du Toit now joins an elite group of multiple-time winners, having been nominated alongside Kolbe, Etzebeth, and Ireland’s Caelan Doris. His incredible work rate, leadership, and versatility were pivotal to South Africa’s success, earning him this coveted title again.
Reflecting on the accolade, Springbok coach Rassie Erasmus said: "Pieter-Steph embodies the spirit of this team. To have so many of our players honored at these awards speaks to their commitment and the unity within the squad. Rugby is a team sport, and it’s the collective effort that enables individuals to shine." Erasmus also highlighted the squad’s depth, with 50 players rotated during the season: "This achievement reflects the caliber of players we have and their ability to step up when called upon."
Du Toit’s triumph, alongside the collective achievements of the Springbok team, underscores a landmark year for South African rugby, Winning 9 out of their 11 games in 2024, including victories over the All Blacks, Ireland, England and Australia, further cementing their legacy on the global stage.
[Submitted by Kevin Rademeyer]
As anticipation builds for Season 3 of Betway SA20, the league has announced a landmark partnership with global logistics and supply chain giant, DP World. The agreement positions DP World as the official Global Logistics Partner of South Africa’s premier T20 cricket competition, which kicks off on 9 January 2025.
Innovation Meets Cricket Excellence
This collaboration underscores a shared commitment to innovation and efficiency. DP World’s advanced logistics solutions will ensure the smooth operation of the tournament, setting a new standard for professionalism in the sporting world.
“Partnering with DP World marks a significant milestone for Betway SA20,” said League Commissioner Graeme Smith. “Their expertise will add immense value to our operations, elevating the overall competition experience for players and fans alike. Together, we aim to push the boundaries of what is possible in cricket.”
A Proven Partner in Sport
DP World’s influence extends far beyond logistics. The company boasts an impressive sports partnership portfolio, including collaborations with the McLaren Formula One team, the DP World Tour, and the Ryder Cup. They are also the Title Partner of Johannesburg's DP World Wanderers Stadium, which will host the SA20 Final on 8 February 2025.
“This partnership reflects our shared vision of innovation, excellence, and community impact,” said Mohammed Akoojee, CEO & MD for sub-Saharan Africa at DP World. “By connecting communities through cricket, we are demonstrating how logistics can go beyond business to create meaningful change.”
Empowering Communities Through Cricket
DP World’s Beyond Boundaries Initiative has already made waves in grassroots cricket development. The program repurposes shipping containers into cricket hubs, providing essential equipment to underserved clubs worldwide. In its inaugural year, the initiative distributed 10 containers and 2,500 kits globally.
With Betway SA20’s community outreach programs aligning with DP World’s mission, the partnership promises to leave a lasting impact both on and off the field.
Season 3: Cricket Meets Festivity
Season 3 begins on 9 January at St George’s Park, where defending champions Sunrisers Eastern Cape will take on MI Cape Town. The tournament will showcase a month of exhilarating cricket featuring top local and international talent.
For tickets and more information, visit www.sa20.co.za.
[Submitted by Kevin Rademeyer]
Fourteen South African cricketers secured contracts in the highly competitive 2025 Indian Premier League (IPL) mega-auction held over two days in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. The upcoming IPL season, running from 14 March to 25 May, promises nine weeks of uninterrupted franchise cricket, offering fans and players alike an extended showcase of talent.
The mega-auction, held every three years, saw 577 players vying for lucrative contracts during six intense bidding sessions. Indian wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant stole the show, becoming the most expensive player in IPL history with a staggering ₹60 crore (R60 million) contract from Lucknow Super Giants.
South Africans in the Spotlight
Among the South Africans, Heinrich Klaasen emerged as the highest-paid, retained by Sunrisers Hyderabad for a whopping ₹49.3 crore (R49.3 million). Tristan Stubbs also maintained his IPL presence with Delhi Capitals, while pacer Kagiso Rabada fetched ₹21.4 crore (R21.4 million) following a fierce bidding war before being acquired by Gujarat Titans.
South Africa's burgeoning SA20 league played a pivotal role in connecting local players to IPL franchises. Matthew Breetzke, Ryan Rickelton, and Kwena Maphaka earned contracts with teams aligned with their SA20 sides. Breetzke, a standout for Durban’s SuperGiants, will join Lucknow Super Giants, while Rickelton heads to Mumbai Indians after topping the SA20 scoring charts. Maphaka, just 18, secured a deal with Rajasthan Royals, underscoring his potential despite limited playing time in the SA20.
Notable Additions and Misses
Veteran fast bowler Anrich Nortje, despite recent injury setbacks, commanded ₹13.9 crore (R13.9 million) from Kolkata Knight Riders. Meanwhile, David Miller (Lucknow Super Giants) and Marco Jansen (Punjab Kings) also secured significant contracts worth ₹16 crore (R16 million) and ₹14.9 crore (R14.9 million), respectively.
However, several prominent South Africans, including Dewald Brevis, Keshav Maharaj, and Tabraiz Shamsi, went unsold, highlighting the intense competition and strategic team-building approaches. Spin bowling options, especially from India, dominated the auction, leaving even seasoned campaigners like Piyush Chawla without a buyer.
IPL 2025: A Platform for All
The IPL continues to be a melting pot of talent across age groups. Rajasthan Royals made headlines by signing 13-year-old Indian batting prodigy Vaibhav Suryavanshi for ₹2.1 crore (R2.1 million), while 40-year-old former Proteas captain Faf du Plessis earned a ₹4.2 crore (R4.2 million) deal with Delhi Capitals.
The 2025 edition of the IPL not only promises thrilling cricket but also reinforces the league’s status as a global showcase for emerging stars and seasoned veterans alike. For South African players, the tournament remains a vital platform for proving their mettle on the international stage
[Submitted by Kevin Rademeyer]
The Springboks will host Italy, Georgia, Australia, and Argentina in an action-packed 2025 season, SA Rugby announced. The fixtures include Tests in the Castle Lager Incoming Series and the home leg of the Castle Lager Rugby Championship. While venues and kick-off times are yet to be finalized, fans can mark their calendars for a thrilling lineup of matches.
Incoming Series: Italy and Georgia Return
Italy will return to South Africa for the first time since 2013, with back-to-back clashes scheduled for 5 and 12 July. The Azzurri have played only seven Tests on South African soil since their inaugural visit in 1999.
A week later, on 19 July, the Boks will face Georgia, providing the Lelos another opportunity to test themselves against tier-one opposition. This will be only their second Test in South Africa, following their historic 2021 clash in Pretoria during the British & Irish Lions series buildup.
Rugby Championship: The Reign Continues
The Springboks will begin their defence of the Rugby Championship crown with two home Tests against Australia on 16 and 23 August. The Wallabies, hosting the British & Irish Lions earlier that year, will present a tough challenge as both sides eye Rugby Championship supremacy.
South Africa will then head to New Zealand for two high-stakes encounters with the All Blacks on 6 and 13 September. The Rugby Championship concludes with a home Test against Argentina on 27 September and an away fixture against the Pumas on 4 October.
Details about the November tour to Europe, as well as venues for the All Blacks Tests and away fixtures, will be released in due course.
[Submitted by Kevin Rademeyer]
In a cricketing spectacle that had fans on the edge of their seats, the South African cricket team, affectionately known as the Proteas, managed to level the T20 series against India with a nail-biting three-wicket victory in Gqeberha on Sunday. This match, part of a four-game series, showcased the resilience and fighting spirit of the Proteas, who were determined to bounce back after a 61-run defeat in the first game.
The match began with India electing to bat first, but they were quickly put under pressure by the Proteas' bowling attack. The Indian top order crumbled, leaving them at a precarious 15/3. However, a resilient middle-order fightback, led by Hardik Pandya's unbeaten 39, helped India set a target of 125 runs, which, although modest, promised to be challenging given the conditions and the form of the South African batting line-up.
Chasing the target, the Proteas' top order struggled to find rhythm, with early wickets falling at regular intervals. The scoreboard was ticking slowly, and the required run rate began to climb. This is where the match took a dramatic turn, thanks to an unbeaten 42-run partnership between Tristan Stubbs and Gerald Coetzee. Stubbs, in particular, played a captain's knock, remaining unbeaten at 47, showcasing his ability to anchor the innings under pressure.
The turning point of the match could arguably be attributed to Varun Chakravarthy's bowling spell, where he nearly single-handedly turned the game in India's favor with figures of 5/17. However, it was not enough as Stubbs and Coetzee's late assault, especially in the 18th and 19th overs, where they scored 26 runs, sealed the deal for South Africa.
This victory was not just about the points on the board but about the Proteas' character. After a demoralizing loss in the first match, the team showed remarkable resilience, both with the ball and the bat. The bowling attack, led by Jansen and Coetzee, set the tone early, while the lower middle order's tenacity in the chase was the stuff of legends.
The series now stands at 1-1, with the next two matches set to be crucial for both teams. For India, this loss will be a wake-up call, highlighting areas they need to address, especially in their top-order batting. For South Africa, this win will boost morale, proving that they can compete and win against one of the cricketing giants on their day.
As the series progresses, cricket enthusiasts are in for more thrilling encounters, with both teams likely to make strategic adjustments. The Proteas' victory in Gqeberha has not only leveled the series but has also reignited the excitement around what promises to be an enthralling contest.
[Submitted by Kevin Rademeyer]
In a weekend that underscored the supremacy of Southern Hemisphere rugby, teams from the south delivered a clean sweep over their Northern Hemisphere rivals in the Autumn Nations Series. This display of strength has set a compelling tone for the future of international rugby, revealing shifts in strategy, talent depth, and a growing gap between hemispheric styles of play.
All Blacks End Ireland’s Home Winning Streak
New Zealand, led by Scott Robertson, clinched a 23-13 victory against Ireland, ending the Irish team's formidable 19-game home winning streak. This match was a masterclass in strategy and resilience, with Will Jordan’s try and Damian McKenzie’s precise kicking game securing a crucial win. More than just a victory, the All Blacks’ performance emphasized their ability to dominate physically and mentally, especially under challenging conditions.
Wallabies Stun England with Flair
The Wallabies showcased a blend of seasoned veterans and emerging talent in their thrilling 42-37 victory over England. Joseph Sua'ali'i’s debut at outside centre added an unpredictable edge to the Australian attack, proving pivotal in their close win. This narrow but significant triumph signals Australia’s resurgence and hints at their potential to challenge the best in the north, especially as they look ahead to the British and Irish Lions tour.
Springboks Reinforce Their Global Supremacy
Reigning Rugby Championship title-holders South Africa bolstered their dominance with a 32-15 win over Scotland. Known for their unyielding defense, the Springboks again demonstrated their tactical flexibility, with Makazole Mapimpi’s tries adding fire to their offensive game. Securing the top spot in World Rugby rankings, South Africa’s form reflects their current status as a team to beat on the global stage.
Fiji’s Bold Statement Against Wales
In a landmark 24-19 win over Wales, Fiji proved they are not mere contenders but formidable opponents on the international stage. Caleb Muntz’s Player of the Match performance underscored Fiji’s tactical maturity and physical prowess, signaling their rising influence in rugby.
Argentina’s Power Play Against Italy
Argentina’s 50-18 dismantling of Italy highlighted their formidable forward play and skillful backline tactics. Los Pumas controlled the match with a clinical performance that left Italy struggling to keep pace. This resounding win cements Argentina’s place as one of the sport’s toughest competitors, keeping them firmly in the conversation as a top-tier rugby nation.
Implications for Rugby's Global Landscape
The Southern Hemisphere’s clean sweep could signal a seismic shift in rugby’s power dynamics. Teams like Fiji and Australia have shown revival, pushing the north to rethink its strategies, training methods, and even coaching approaches. England and Ireland’s losses underscore the challenges ahead for Northern Hemisphere teams in meeting this heightened competition.
The Autumn Nations Series has always been a proving ground for rugby's elite, but this year it felt like a paradigm shift. As the dust settles, all eyes turn to the Northern Hemisphere’s response: will they adapt, or will Southern Hemisphere dominance continue to reshape the sport’s global landscape? For now, the rugby world is left buzzing with the far-reaching implications of a weekend that will be remembered as a turning point.
[Submitted by Kevin Rademeyer]
The Springboks opened their Castle Lager Outgoing Tour with a commanding 32-15 win over Scotland in Edinburgh, but head coach Rassie Erasmus and captain Eben Etzebeth acknowledged the victory wasn’t as seamless as the scoreboard might suggest. Despite the 17-point margin, both leaders admitted there’s still work to be done to bring the team into perfect harmony as they look to deepen squad depth and refine on-field cohesion.
The Springboks scored four tries, a testament to their offensive capabilities, while Scotland’s points came exclusively from penalty goals. Erasmus was pleased with the defensive resilience that saw his team keep the Scots tryless for the second consecutive game, yet he noted that the game wasn’t as one-sided as it appeared.
“The scoreboard doesn’t tell the whole story, but we can be proud of the fact that we didn’t concede a try,” Erasmus said. “We had to work hard for this result, and while winning by 17 points away from home is something to celebrate, we still have a lot to work on, especially in terms of syncing better on the field.”
Erasmus stressed that while the team’s effort was commendable, refining their play under pressure and being prepared for unexpected injuries remains a top priority. With a focus on strengthening their internal coordination, Erasmus hopes the team can build on this performance and iron out the rough edges as they progress through the tour.
Springbok captain Eben Etzebeth shared his coach’s sentiments, emphasizing that Scotland, ranked seventh in the world, presented a tough challenge. “We knew from the outset that Scotland are a quality team, one of the best in the world,” Etzebeth said. “I think the scoreline flatters us a bit. We expected a tough, grinding match, and credit to them—they made us work hard.”
The Springboks now set their sights on a high-stakes encounter against England at London’s Allianz Stadium on Saturday. Erasmus acknowledged that this next game would be “a different challenge altogether,” with England desperate for a victory after two narrow losses in their recent matches.
As the Springboks travel from Edinburgh to London, they’ll commence preparations for what promises to be an intense test against a determined English side.
[Submitted by Kevin Rademeyer]
