The fourth edition of the SA20, South Africa's premier T20 franchise league, kicked off on December 26, 2025, with defending champions MI Cape Town facing Durban's Super Giants in the opening match at Newlands Cricket Ground in Cape Town. Running until January 25, 2026, the tournament spans approximately one month and features 34 matches in total, including 30 league-stage games and four playoff fixtures. This season holds extra significance for South African players (Proteas), who have just returned from a bilateral tour of India and are using the competition to sharpen their skills ahead of the ICC T20 World Cup 2026 in the subcontinent. The league has quickly established itself as a key platform for talent development and high-intensity cricket since its inception in 2023.

Six competitive franchises are participating: MI Cape Town (captained by Rashid Khan), Sunrisers Eastern Cape (Tristan Stubbs), Pretoria Capitals (Keshav Maharaj), Paarl Royals (David Miller), Durban Super Giants (Aiden Markram), and Joburg Super Kings (Faf du Plessis). Each team boasts a mix of international stars and local talent, including overseas marquees like Jos Buttler, Sunil Narine, Andre Russell, Jonny Bairstow, Trent Boult, and Nicholas Pooran. Full squads include notable names such as Kagiso Rabada, Heinrich Klaasen, Quinton de Kock, Anrich Nortje, and Kane Williamson across the franchises. The format follows a standard league structure: all six teams play each other twice in the league phase, with the top four advancing to the playoffs—Qualifier 1 (top two teams), Eliminator (3rd vs 4th), Qualifier 2 (loser of Q1 vs winner of Eliminator), and the final on January 25.

Matches are hosted at major South African venues, including Newlands (Cape Town), with doubleheaders common to maximize viewership. The tournament's timing in the summer season ensures vibrant crowds and varied pitch conditions that test players' adaptability. Sunrisers Eastern Cape remain the most successful side historically with two titles (2023 and 2024), while MI Cape Town claimed their maiden crown in the previous edition. The presence of global stars and emerging talents underscores SA20's role in boosting South African cricket's depth and financial appeal.

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For viewers in India, the action is available live on the Star Sports Network for television broadcast and via live streaming on the JioHotstar app and website. Global audiences can follow through official broadcasters in respective regions (details vary by territory). As the tournament unfolds, fans can track live scores, highlights, and updates on platforms like ESPNcricinfo and official SA20 channels. This season promises thrilling contests and valuable preparation for international commitments in the lead-up to the 2026 T20 World Cup.

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