Graeme Smith, the SA20 league commissioner and former South Africa captain, has shared her thoughts on the potential entry of Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), the current Indian Premier League (IPL) champion, in the South African league. His comments follow RCB’s momentous first-ever IPL title win and acknowledge their immense global fanbase. The SA20 has already gained significant popularity, particularly among Indian viewers, due to its deep-rooted ties with the IPL. This potential expansion would not only be a huge boost for the league but also a massive win for RCB’s supporters worldwide.

SA20’s IPL connection and Graeme Smith on RCB’s potential entry

The SA20 league is often seen as South Africa’s version of the IPL, a perception strengthened by the fact that all six of its founding teams are owned by IPL franchises. Familiar names like Joburg Super Kings, MI Cape Town and Paarl Royals have created an instant connection with Indian fans, drawing huge viewership. This success has led to speculation about adding new franchises, with RCB being a prominent topic. Smith admitted that with their passionate and dedicated fanbase, having an RCB franchise would be ‘incredible.’ The team also has strong historical links to South Africa through cricketing legends like AB de Villiers and Faf du Plessis, making their potential entry into the league feel like a natural fit.

“Even when I played for South Africa, it was amazing to see India’s love for the game and how they got behind RCB. I’m sure the celebrations are still continuing after this victory. If we expand in the future, to have an RCB franchise would be incredible. They are one of the strongest franchises in the global game with such a passionate fan base,” Smith was quoted as saying by News18.

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Expansion plans and high-value auction deals

The SA20’s future looks bright, with Smith revealing that the league may explore adding new teams after its fifth season. This potential expansion is buoyed by the upcoming ODI World Cup 2027 in South Africa, Zimbabwe and Namibia, which is expected to further boost cricket’s profile in the region. The league’s growing commercial strength was on full display at the recent Season 4 auction, which saw young batting star Dewald Brevis become the most expensive player in SA20 history. Brevis was snapped up by the Pretoria Capitals for a record-breaking R16.5 million, just after Aiden Markram had set a new high of R14 million. The auction also featured other notable deals, with veteran spinner Imran Tahir, now 46, finding a spot with the Super Kings, while England pace legend James Anderson went unsold.

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