Former South Africa captain Graeme Smith is full of excitement for the upcoming SA20 season, highlighting the league’s focus on improving the fan experience and delivering high quality cricket. “I think a lot of it is about doing things well again,” Smith told ANI. “The fan experience in the stadium, we’ve invested a lot of money in entertainment, things for kids, things like that,” he added. Smith, considered one of the best captains of all time, also praised the team’s depth and strength this season.
“We have brought in some quality players this year, some of the best players in South Africa. I think all the teams look very strong. There are so many great matchups coming for us,” he said.
The 43-year-old also expressed his hopes for a rookie or young player to make a big splash in the tournament.
One of the major highlights of this year’s SA20 was the inclusion of Dinesh Karthik, who will represent Paarl Royals. Smith heaped praise on the India wicket-keeper batsman for his career achievements and recent IPL form.
“DK has had an amazing career. He has had two brilliant IPL performances in the last two seasons. I am looking forward to seeing how he plays. He is a character and has a unique style of play. The way the wicketkeeper plays at Paarl, he He can be an asset to the Paarl Royals and we are delighted to have our first Indian superstar in SA20,” Smith said.
Smith also spoke about the strong relationship between SA20 and Indian cricket and thanked the BCCI and IPL for supporting the South African-based league.
“We are fortunate to have a good relationship with the IPL and the BCCI. They have supported us and supported us. We have been working closely. We are excited to bring more Indian players to South Africa. They will show their ability, their skills and we will “When the time comes, we will work with them to bring in more Indian players,” he said.
Highlighting the historic bond between Indian fans and South African cricket, Smith recalled how the relationship blossomed after South Africa rejoined international cricket.
“The Indian fans have had a good relationship with South African cricket since the readmission. The first SA team came here. They have just fallen in love with SA cricket. Hopefully they will enjoy what they will see and hopefully we will retain them “It was fun,” he added.
With a strong team, promising talent and the addition of high-profile Indian players, Smith believes the upcoming SA20 season will deliver unforgettable moments for fans around the world.
Topics mentioned in this article
