Cricket latest
Synopsis
Having achieved its most robust economic performance yet, South Africa’s SA20 League has injected $406 million into the country’s gross domestic product. This figure illustrates a striking 23% increase in economic influence compared to the previous year. Attendance surged by 13%, while direct spending climbed to $137 million. The league is gearing up for its fifth season, which is scheduled to start in January 2027.
South Africa’s SA20 League delivered its strongest economic performance to date in its fourth season, contributing $406 million to the country’s gross domestic product and creating or sustaining 9,470 annualised jobs, according to an independent Economic Impact Assessment.
The assessment comes as the league prepares for its fifth season, with the latest figures showing a broad increase in its economic contribution, direct expenditure, employment and household income.
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Attendance across Season 4 rose 13% from the previous season, with 22 of the 34 matches selling out across the league’s six host cities. The final also sold out in record time for the fourth consecutive season, strengthening SA20’s position as a major sporting event on the South African summer calendar.
Higher attendance and increased activity around the tournament pushed direct expenditure to $137 million, compared with $112 million in Season 3. This translated into a $406 million contribution to GDP, a 23% year-on-year increase.
The league’s impact on employment also increased, with 9,470 annualised jobs created or sustained across South Africa, up 16% from Season 3. Household income generated through the league rose to $106 million from $87 million.
SA20 Commissioner Graeme Smith said the figures show that the league’s economic impact is extending beyond cricket.
“Four seasons in, we can see the impact of Betway SA20 extending well beyond what happens on the field. A $406 million contribution to GDP, almost 9,500 jobs supported and $106 million in household income are significant numbers and demonstrate the broader value that a successful South African sporting property can create,” Smith said.
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“As we head into our fifth season, our ambition is not only to continue growing the League, but to deepen that impact across cricket, our host cities and the wider South African economy.”
The assessment also highlighted economic activity generated across SA20’s six host cities, along with the role played by its six Indian Premier League-backed franchises in driving investment, attendance and business activity in their respective markets.
“What is particularly encouraging is that this impact is being generated across the country,” Smith added. “Our six franchises and host cities have been fundamental to the League’s growth from day one. Every full stadium brings people into these cities, supports local businesses and creates opportunities around the event. As the League grows, we want that contribution to grow with it.”
SA20 also expanded its social impact initiatives during Season 4. The league raised $31.2k for its social impact partner, the Laureus Sport for Good Foundation, while more than 400 young Laureus beneficiaries were given the opportunity to attend live cricket.
The economic results provide a strong base for SA20’s fifth season, which will begin on 17 January 2027. Preparations will accelerate with the Season 5 Player Auction on 7 October, ahead of another campaign featuring leading T20 players from around the world.
Fans can register for early access to the Season 5 ticket pre-sale, allowing them first pick of seats before tickets go on general sale, including tickets for the Playoffs and Final.