Cricket in South Africa urgently needs a premier women’s franchise T20 tournament, just as crucial as the continued success of the SA 20.
Skeptics initially doubted the launch of the Indian Premier League by the BCCI, yet it has become an integral part of the global cricket calendar, catapulting the careers of many international stars.
The BCCI has since expanded into women’s franchise T20 cricket alongside the Women’s Big Bash League (WBBL).
Cricket Demands a Women’s SA 20
The success of the 2023 women’s T20 World Cup, which drew large crowds, demonstrates the South African public’s enthusiasm for women’s cricket in this format. Similarly, the SA 20 has shown that fans are eager to support franchise T20 cricket.
South Africa should proactively work towards joining leagues like the Women’s Premier League (WPL) and the WBBL, rather than waiting to see how events unfold.
Substantial investment will be necessary, but it is precisely this reason that underscores the need for South Africa to advance in this area.
South African players are prevalent in the WPL, WBBL, and the Women’s Hundred. A franchise tournament inviting numerous international professionals would not only highlight established players but also introduce new talents under ideal conditions.
The Time Has Come
The WPL was long overdue but was finally initiated following improved performances by India’s women’s team, influencing the BCCI’s decision.
South Africa has the opportunity to significantly advance the professionalism of women’s cricket with such a tournament.
The success of the SA 20 provides Cricket South Africa (CSA) with a growth blueprint, suggesting that the women’s tournament should be linked in branding and possibly ownership with the men’s tournament.
Unlike the men’s cricket scene, there is still room for a new women’s T20 event. This could also challenge the dominance of the sport’s top three nations.
A new T20 event for women would likely attract top international players, offering more playing time and substantial earnings.
The broader impact on South African cricket would extend well beyond enhancing the national team.
South Africa has already proven itself as an excellent host for T20 events, making it a prime candidate for a Women’s SA 20.
If executed well, a Women’s SA 20 would propel the professionalism of women’s cricket in South Africa significantly forward.
