Thu Jan 09 11:24:36 UTC 2025: ## SA20 Cricket Tournament Kicks Off Today in South Africa
**Gqeberha, South Africa –** The third edition of the South Africa T20 (SA20) league begins today, January 9th, with a clash between defending champions Sunrisers Eastern Cape and MI Cape Town at St George’s Park in Gqeberha. Sunrisers Eastern Cape, boasting a star-studded lineup including Aiden Markram and Tristan Stubbs, are strong favorites to win a third consecutive title.
The tournament features six teams – Sunrisers Eastern Cape, Durban Super Giants, Joburg Super Kings, MI Cape Town, Paarl Royals, and Pretoria Capitals – competing in 34 matches. The playoffs will see the top four teams battle it out, culminating in the final at The Wanderers Stadium in Johannesburg on February 8th. A unique playoff structure will see the top two teams face off in Qualifier 1, while the third and fourth-placed teams compete in the Eliminator, with the winner advancing to play the Qualifier 1 loser for a place in the final.
This year’s tournament marks a significant milestone with the participation of Dinesh Karthik, the first Indian cricketer to compete in the SA20. The former Indian international, who recently retired from all forms of cricket, will play for the Paarl Royals.
Cricket fans in India can catch all the action live on Star Sports Network and stream the matches on Disney+ Hotstar. The opening match between Sunrisers Eastern Cape and MI Cape Town begins at 9:00 PM IST.
First Piper 