SA20 has announced that it has concluded a 10-year partnership with Viacom18 Sports, India’s newest sports network.
The deal grants Viacom18 Sports the rights to exclusively present all matches to India’s cricket-loving fanbase.
SA20 and Viacom18 will work closely to grow and engage cricket fans in India, as South Africa’s premier T20 League grows its network in the market.
“Today is a ground-breaking day for South African cricket. This long-term partnership between the SA20 and Viacom18 as our official Indian broadcaster is a catalyst that supports our ambitions to build the world’s second biggest league,” said SA20 League Commissioner Graeme Smith. “With six IPL owners expanding their brands in South Africa, Viacom18 are the perfect partner to take the SA20 into the homes of the passionate and cricket-loving Indian market. The benefits to domestic cricket will be far reaching with more South African players exposed to a global cricket audience and a stimulus to build a strong and sustainable cricket ecosystem. As SA20, we look forward to working with the dynamic team at Viacom18 to build a world-class league.”
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The inaugural edition of the SA20 features a host of exciting local and international cricket stars primed to deliver an entertaining and competitive show of cricket for fans across the globe.
“We continue to offer fans an immersive and engaging experience by strengthening our sports portfolio with some of the best cricket action through SA20,” said Viacom18 Sports CEO Anil Jayaraj. “T20 is the most popular cricket format with Indian fans. The history and legacy of South African cricket and the popularity of South African cricketers in India make it a thrilling proposition for cricket fans in India. We expect significant viewership and fan engagement as the event will be played in prime-time.”
The first ball will be bowled on 10 January 2023, with the six teams contesting 33 matches live across six venues. The six teams – Joburg Super Kings, Pretoria Capitals, Durban Super Giants, Sunrisers Eastern Cape, Paarl Royals and MI Cape Town – are owned by groups that have teams across various global leagues, including the Indian Premier League.
The addition of the SA20 strengthens Viacom18’s portfolio of sports events, including the Indian Premier League, FIFA World Cup 2022, NBA, Diamond League, LaLiga, Serie A, Ligue 1, and top ATP and BWF events.
