SA20 2025: AB de Villiers points out learnings SA20 can adopt from IPL
"In 2008, 2009, and maybe even 2010, people were sceptical. It only started gaining serious momentum after that," AB de Villiers said about the IPL.
The Indian Premier League (IPL) is the biggest franchise cricket competition in the world. Former Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) star AB de Villiers, who is one of the greatest players the game has ever seen, explained some of the things that South Africa's SA20 can learn from the IPL.
De Villiers noted that people were unsure about the IPL's long-term success during its initial years. However, the cash-rich league grew from strength to strength with every passing season to become what it is now. The former Proteas captain said that the South African board and stakeholders will have to be patient with the SA20 and look to make innovations in order to improve the tournament.
“As for learnings from the IPL, the biggest takeaway is to keep going. It’s funny because everyone doubted the IPL in its early years. In 2008, 2009, and maybe even 2010, people were sceptical. It only started gaining serious momentum after that. For SA20, the key is to innovate and improve every season, just like the IPL did. There might be moments where it feels like things are stagnating, but you just have to hold on. Patience is a virtue, and magical things can happen if you stay consistent," the SA20 Brand Ambassador said while answering CricTracker's query during a media interaction.
De Villiers also suggested that Graeme Smith, who is the League Commissioner of SA20, should look to attract the Indian audience by bringing on board some players from the cricket-crazy nation.
"Graeme and his team should keep their heads down, focus on innovation, attract crowds, and grab attention globally. It’s especially important to maintain interest in India, the world’s biggest cricketing market. Getting more Indian players involved and drawing Indian fans to South Africa would benefit both the tournament and the country. India and South Africa have a strong relationship, going back to figures like Nelson Mandela and Gandhi. The Friendship Trophy embodies this connection. Building on these ties through cricket would be incredible. The key message is not to give up—to keep pushing harder every season," de Villiers stated.
Also Read: I do feel the domestic system needs to be strong in order for consistency at the top: AB de Villiers
The third season of SA20 begins on Thursday, January 9, with Sunrisers Eastern Cape taking on MI Cape Town at St George's Park, Gqeberha.
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