The South African T20 league (SA20) is set to host its third season, and the upcoming player auction promises to be an exciting affair. With nearly 200 players shortlisted, including 115 South Africans, the six franchises will have their pick of some of the world’s best T20 talent.
Among the international players up for grabs are Shamar Joseph, Naseem Shah, Josh Little, and Josh Hull. These players have all impressed in recent T20 tournaments and will be looking to make a mark in the SA20.
The Paarl Royals have the largest purse remaining at R11.95 million, followed by MI Cape Town with R8.275 million and Pretoria Capitals with R4.575 million. The Joburg Super Kings have R3.925 million, while the Sunrisers Eastern Cape hold R2.845 million. Durban’s Super Giants have the smallest purse remaining at R2.35 million.
Some of the notable international players on the shortlist include New Zealand opener Martin Guptill, Sri Lankan allrounder Kamindu Mendis, and Afghan wrist-spinner Qais Ahmad. Reeza Hendricks, released by the Super Kings, is the most notable South African in the shortlist.
Each squad must have 19 players, including a minimum of 10 South Africans, a maximum of seven international players, a rookie, and a wildcard player. All franchises, except the Super Kings, have announced their wildcard picks. The Super Kings have until December 30 to name their wildcard player.
The Paarl Royals have selected former India wicketkeeper-batter Dinesh Karthik as their wildcard. Karthik will be the first Indian to compete in the SA20.
The SA20 Auction and Rookie Draft will take place on October 1. The tournament is scheduled to begin on January 9.
