In a significant development, the salary purse for SA20 teams has witnessed a notable boost, rising from R34 million to R39.1 million ahead of the upcoming season. This increase in the salary purse reflects the growing prominence and success of the SA20 League.
Furthermore, the organizers have introduced a new regulation that requires teams to sign a rookie South African player under the age of 22. This player must not have previously participated in the SA20 League, adding a fresh dynamic to team compositions. Consequently, the squad size has been expanded to accommodate 19 players, with a minimum of 11 South Africans mandatory in each team. Additionally, teams are allowed to include up to four overseas players in their playing XI.
Graeme Smith, the SA20 League Commissioner, expressed his excitement about these changes, stating that they aim to build upon the thrilling cricket showcased in the league’s inaugural season. Smith emphasized that assembling the finest South African and international talent will generate highly competitive and top-quality cricket, delighting fans in the upcoming second season.
The inclusion of a rookie player in each squad exemplifies the league’s commitment to nurturing young talent and providing them with a global platform to showcase their skills. The first season witnessed remarkable performances from young players, and the introduction of this regulation further solidifies SA20 as an aspirational platform for budding cricketers.
The official trading window for South African players opened on June 1, enabling teams to engage in trades, retain their players, buy-out contracts, or pre-sign players ahead of the auction. Sunrisers Eastern Cape emerged victorious in the inaugural season, which was widely regarded as a resounding success.
