SA20 Season 2 Boosts South Africa’s Economy with $238 Million GDP Impact

The second season of the SA20 cricket league has delivered a significant boost to South Africa’s economy, contributing $238 million to the nation’s GDP. This figure, revealed in an independent report, surpasses the $227 million generated during the league’s inaugural season, underscoring its growing economic and social impact.

The 34-match tournament, held from January 10 to February 9, 2024, across six cities, stimulated local businesses, created jobs, and drove growth. Key highlights from the report include $83 million in direct expenditure, $55.3 million in household income, and 8,077 annualized employment opportunities.

Graeme Smith, the SA20 League Commissioner, emphasized the league’s broader contributions to South African communities and its role in skills development. “While our focus remains on delivering exceptional cricket, it’s rewarding to see the positive impact on South Africa’s economy and communities,” Smith said. He highlighted the league’s role in preparing for the 2027 Cricket World Cup and its efforts to upskill resources for future global events.

Season 2 saw record attendance, with over 380,000 fans flocking to venues, including 38,000 interprovincial and nearly 6,000 international visitors. The league hosted 10 sold-out matches, including a sold-out final for the second consecutive year. Broadcast and digital viewership also reached unprecedented levels, making SA20 the most viewed event on SuperSport’s Premium Channel.

Looking ahead, SA20 Season 3 aims to further empower young talent, with expanded internship programs across operational departments. Six interns from the Laureus YES Programme will be based at the six venues, alongside photography and digital interns, as well as two cricketers, Aviwe Mgijima and Dominic Hendricks, shadowing the cricket operations team.

The league has also launched the Schools SA20 competition, engaging over 600 boys’ and girls’ schools nationwide. SA20 Season 3 will begin on January 9, 2025, with reigning champions Sunrisers Eastern Cape hosting MI Cape Town at St George’s Park in Gqeberha, promising another thrilling season of cricket and economic growth.