The SA20 is back, starting in the middle of the second week in January with a rematch of one of the playoffs. The first round of matches all take place at the coast, or close to it in the case of Paarl.
Once again, there is a decent cast of international stars in this edition of the SA20, but the young South African talent might be the big headliners. James Richardson previews the first three matches.
Wednesday 10 January 2024
Sunrisers Eastern Cape 92/100 | Joburg Super Kings 92/100
The defending champions, the Sunrisers, start their defence at home against a team that look incredibly likely to be top contenders in 2024.
The Super Kings have T20 superstars like Faf du Plessis, Moeen Ali and Romario Shepherd at their call, along with outstanding young talents.
Unfortunately, it looks like Gerald Coetzee will miss the opening match for the Super Kings, but they will be able to call on Nandre Burger, who has been one of the summer’s breakout stars.
The Sunrisers don’t have the flashy standouts, but they do have two of the most reliable batters in T20I cricket in their ranks in their skipper Aiden Markram and England star Dawid Malan.
Verdict: Joburg Super Kings 92/100
Big value on the Joburg franchise to kick off their 2024 campaign with a win.
Thursday 11 January 2024
Durban’s Super Giants 92/100 | MI Cape Town 92/100
The Durban Super Giants have a handy team on paper, but we saw last term that it matters far more how that team gels and comes together.
MI Cape Town are in a similar position to DSG after having a mediocre opening season in this event, and both sides will be eager to start well.
Reece Topley might be the key overseas player for DSG, with the left-arm quick coming into the tournament looking in decent touch.
With a potent top order and a great division of all-rounders on their books, MI Cape Town looks like a very strong team indeed.
Verdict: MI Cape Town 92/100
Back the Cape side to get out of the blocks convincingly against a DSG side who might flatter to deceive once against.
Friday 12 January 2024
Paarl Royals 72/100 | Pretoria Capitals 23/20
The 2023 runners-up Pretoria Capitals are in Paarl to open their tournament against the Royals.
With Phil Salt and Rilee Rossouw in their top order, the Capitals have some imposing firepower.
The Royals will pray that they get the best out of England skipper Jos Buttler this season, given what he can do when dialled in.
However, bowlers Imaad Fortuin and Tabraiz Shamsi might prove to be the men who turn matches for the Royals.
Verdict: Pretoria Capitals 23/20
I’m on the Capitals here to bag an opening win down in Paarl.
