A record-breaking 382,778 viewers saw the SA20 2025 season opener between the defending champion Sunrisers Eastern Cape and MI Cape Town live on SuperSport, a startling 129% increase over Season 2.
After the Proteas vs. India T20I series, the SA20 opening match now has the second-highest recorded live opening viewership figure on SuperSport for the summer cricket season. The League also attracts a larger audience in this market than the IPL and Big Bash games.
Four of the first six games were sold out, and despite the rain delays, 79% of the crowd showed up, setting new attendance records for the first week. The thousands of people who have gathered to the stadiums throughout will probably continue to enjoy the cricket and entertainment experience as the action cranks up for the remaining group matches.
“We’ve worked hard to establish the League as property that appeals to viewers at home and those who come to the stadium, and these numbers give us the confidence that we are on the right track to keep building on a strong foundation,” said League Commissioner Graeme Smith.
Since the united support of our franchisees, SuperSport, and the fans has been essential to our success, we will keep working together over the next three weeks of the tournament to give the fans something special.
The League and SuperSport have teamed up to broadcast a few games of South Africa’s premier T20 franchise cricket league on DSTV Access through the SuperSport Variety 4 Channel in an attempt to attract a wider audience.
“The overwhelming response to the SA20 league has thrilled us,” says Tumelo Selikane, general director of Nielsen Sports SA. “The high viewership figures demonstrate the League’s increasing appeal and the outstanding work that SuperSport and the League have done.” This is fantastic news for its sponsors and a clear indication that the League is altering the appeal of domestic cricket in South Africa.
SA20’s appeal goes beyond its viewership and attendance.
A significant number of new sponsors have also joined this season, increasing the league’s appeal and financial value. The increase in sponsors demonstrates the League’s growing reputation as a valuable platform for businesses looking to engage with a passionate and engaged audience through sports entertainment.
The League’s franchise teams, who have built strong local brands and successfully attracted new sponsors, will also profit from the increased viewership. The increased brand exposure resulting from the League’s growing audience is expected to provide significant media value returns for these sponsors.
Because of its high viewership and growing commercial appeal, SA20’s third season is anticipated to be a tremendous success. We anticipate even greater attendance as the competition progresses, solidifying its reputation as one of South Africa’s most prestigious and upscale athletic events.
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