‘Second-Best League After IPL’: Robin Uthappa Backs SA20’s Big Future
AFP
Former India cricketer Robin Uthappa has expressed strong faith in the growth of the SA20, calling it the second-best T20 league in the world after the IPL. Speaking on the sidelines of an SA20 match at Kingsmead, Durban, Uthappa said the league’s quality, combined with India’s patience and massive viewership, will play a decisive role in shaping its long-term success.
Now part of the SA20 commentary panel, the 40-year-old returned to Durban nearly two decades after being part of India’s iconic 2007 T20 World Cup-winning squad, a tournament that transformed Indian cricket and global T20 leagues alike.
Why SA20 Stands Out
Uthappa believes SA20 has already laid strong foundations in terms of atmosphere and competitiveness. According to him, South Africa’s emerging talent pool is one of the league’s biggest strengths. Young players like Nqobani Mokoena and Jordan Hermann, he said, are already catching the attention of global scouts, including those from the IPL.
He highlighted that SA20 is not just entertaining fans but also helping South African cricket rebuild depth, especially with the 2026 T20 World Cup approaching.
Patience Is Key
Addressing comparisons with the IPL, Uthappa acknowledged that the SA20 still has ground to cover before it can be used as a direct benchmark for international selection. However, he stressed that leagues need time to mature, pointing out that even the IPL took four to five seasons to reach its current stature.
He supported South Africa selector Patrick Moroney’s cautious stance but added that sustained quality will naturally elevate the league’s influence.
India’s Role in SA20’s Growth
A key factor, according to Uthappa, is India’s massive cricket audience, which accounts for nearly 60–70% of global viewership. SA20’s match timings align perfectly with Indian prime-time slots, making it accessible and viewer-friendly.
Uthappa dismissed concerns about viewer fatigue, saying true cricket fans will always follow high-quality tournaments. He compared SA20’s potential trajectory to leagues like the Big Bash, which have thrived despite early scepticism.
Looking Ahead
Interestingly, Uthappa also hinted that he would not rule out a return as a player if the opportunity arises, underlining how compelling he finds the SA20 environment.
Our Thoughts
Robin Uthappa’s confidence reflects a broader shift in global T20 cricket. As new leagues emerge, sustainability will depend on quality, timing, and fan engagement. With India’s viewership and South Africa’s talent pipeline, SA20 appears well-placed to cement itself as a premier global league.