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[Saba Sports News] South Africa’s premier T20 competition, SA20, has announced the launch of a new development league aimed at identifying and nurturing cricket talent across genders.
The league will feature a national competition across all 16 provinces, starting in September 2024 and continuing until March 2025. It will involve over 370 boys’ teams and more than 200 girls’ teams, with more than a thousand games scheduled.
In collaboration with Cricket South Africa (CSA), SA20 is actively working to elevate women’s cricket in the country. The girls’ tournament is expected to serve as a talent pipeline for the U19 team that will compete in the 2025 U19 Women’s World Cup in Malaysia.
Both the boys’ and girls’ competitions will unfold in three phases: the Provincial competition from September to November, the Regional Playoffs in January and February 2025, and the national finals from March 13-15.
SA20 league commissioner Graeme Smith emphasized the significant impact the competition could have on South Africa’s cricketing future.
“Schools SA20 is more than just a competition; it has the potential to significantly contribute to our cricketing future,” Smith stated. “There are a number of current Protea Men and Women who made their mark at a schools level; I can’t wait to see the next generation entertaining and showcasing their skills on this global stage.”
Smith also underscored the tournament’s commitment to investing in women’s cricket, highlighting the importance of developing the women’s game in South Africa.
“SA20 is also committed to working with CSA to invest in building the base of women’s players,” he added. “Our sponsorship of the U19 Girls’ Camps, combined with CSA’s and the government’s initiatives to professionalize the women’s game, will play a major role in growing the base of players for future Proteas Women’s success.”