SA20 2025/26 shatters records as viewership in India sees massive surge

When the former South Africa captain, Graeme Smith, was appointed as the league’s commissioner, he brought the idea of SA20, and many wondered if that would be able to compete with the already old franchise events, including the Big Bash League, Pakistan Super League (PSL), and the most successful Indian Premier League. 

But in just four seasons, the SA20 has made a massive growth in India with record-breaking viewership in the 2025/26 season. Newlands, the home of the season three champions MI Cape Town, made history by becoming the first venue to sell out all five home fixtures.

SA20 continues rapid growth with record-breaking audience numbers

The competition achieved a huge milestone by selling one millionth ticket to a lucky recipient during the game between the Johannesburg Super Kings and the Tristan Stubbs-led Sunrisers Eastern Cape at Wanderers.

The data has shown that the viewership continues to increase with an overall audience reach up by a massive 47% margin. The opening game between Cape Town and Eastern Cape was the most-viewed opening game to date. The fans are glued to the final with a 72% lift from the second season.

Across India, the UK, the US, and Pan-African markets, it increased by 37%, with a growth of their premier T20 event. In a fast-moving landscape, the competition continues to grow with a 62% increase in followers across all social media, an 87% increase in the following for the teams, a 93% increase in video views, and 233% rise in website traffic users.

Why Indian viewers are tuning in to South Africa’s T20 league

The Indian viewers have turned into the SA20 league because all six sides are owned by the IPL franchise owners, featuring the familiar players and the brands. The league is aligned with the prime-time viewers, offering better skills in the games.

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Unlike the BBL and The Hundred, all the best South African players remain available for the SA20, which enhances the competitiveness and the engagement of the fans. The South African cricket has partnered with the Hotstar to broadcast the games in India. 

What this means for SA20’s global expansion and future

Smith has highlighted the global expansion and future of the event as it is committed to youth and talent development both on and off the field, which was showcased in Season 3.

“Season three of the Betway SA20 has been an absolute game-changer. This is the third year running that we have seen unprecedented growth across broadcast, attendance, and digital platforms; we have really made a mark as one of the leading sports and entertainment brands in the country.” Smith expressed in a statement.

“Globally, our numbers continue to increase and support our vision of being the biggest T20 cricket league outside of India. We couldn’t have achieved this success without the fans, partners, world-class players, broadcasters, franchises, and stakeholders. It’s been incredible to see the passion and commitment towards the League.” He added.

Sunrisers, who have won three titles of the event, will start the 2026/27 season as the defending champions.