South Africa’s Betway SA20 continues its meteoric rise, with Season 3 delivering record crowds, booming viewership, and massive digital growth — confirming its place among the world’s top T20 franchise competitions.

The numbers speak volumes. More than 400,000 fans packed into stadiums across the country, with Newlands setting a new benchmark by selling out every home game. The final sold out for the third year running, while the League celebrated its millionth ticket sold at the Wanderers.

Television audiences followed suit. SuperSport viewership surged by 47%, with the final drawing 72% more viewers than the previous season. Globally, SA20’s reach grew by 37% across markets like India, the UK, the US, and wider Africa — underscoring its growing international pull.

Online, the League exploded. Social media followers jumped by 62%, video views nearly doubled, and web traffic more than tripled. Media coverage in India skyrocketed, with a 96% increase in media value and a 231% jump in print stories.

League Commissioner Graeme Smith called it a "game-changer", highlighting the tournament’s unique mix of world-class cricket and fan-first entertainment. “We’ve built something truly special that resonates locally and globally,” he said.

Beyond the boundary, SA20 invested in youth. Through its learnership scheme, 26 young South Africans gained hands-on industry experience, while R630,000 was raised for the Laureus Sport for Good Foundation. The launch of Schools SA20 saw over 600 schools compete, with Steyn City School (girls) and Bishops Diocesan College (boys) crowned inaugural champions — and two full scholarships awarded to future stars.

With Season 4 set to launch on 26 December 2025, SA20 is fast becoming cricket’s must-watch summer festival — where sport, spectacle and future talent take centre stage.
[Submitted by Kevin Rademeyer]