Cricket in South Africa urgently requires a marquee women’s franchise T20 tournament to complement the success of the existing SA 20 league.
When the BCCI launched the Indian Premier League, skeptics doubted its potential, but it has since become a cornerstone of the global cricket calendar, launching the careers of numerous stars from India and beyond. Following suit, the BCCI has now ventured into women’s franchise T20 cricket, joining the ranks of the WBBL.
Cricket is Crying Out for a Women’s SA 20
The well-attended T20 Women’s World Cup in 2023 demonstrated that South African audiences are eager to support women’s cricket in this format. Similarly, the SA 20 has shown that fans are enthusiastic about franchise T20 events.
South Africa should not hesitate but instead take decisive action to join the WPL and the established Women’s Big Bash League. Significant investment will be necessary, but this is precisely why progress is essential.
South African players already feature prominently in the WPL, WBBL, and the Women’s Hundred tournament. A domestic franchise tournament that includes a large number of foreign professionals could showcase both established and emerging stars in ideal conditions.
The Time Has Come
The launch of the WPL felt overdue, but improved performances from the Indian women’s team eventually convinced the BCCI. South Africa has the opportunity to make a significant leap in the professionalism of women’s cricket through a similar tournament.
The success of the SA 20 provides a blueprint for growth, and CSA should consider pairing the women’s tournament with the SA 20 in terms of branding and possibly ownership.
Unlike the men’s game, there is still room for a new T20 event on the women’s scene. Such a tournament would likely be welcomed by top players worldwide, offering them more time on the pitch and the chance to earn a substantial payday.
The impact on South African cricket would extend far beyond improving the national team. South Africa has already proven to be a spectacular venue for T20 cricket events, and a women’s SA 20 would solidify this reputation.
If executed correctly, a women’s SA 20 would propel women’s cricket in South Africa to new heights of professionalism.
