Many Protea stalwarts will not be available to do international duty in the upcoming test series against New Zealand, because they are contracted to play in the Betway SA20 series.

“I’ve said a lot that in a number of years’ time giving South African players this platform certainly will benefit them. We’ve seen the IPL and the amount of talent that has come through in India. I have already spoken about the teams, the franchises, the coaches, the expertise, medical and fitness and exposing players to playing in front of big crowds. Our top domestic players don’t get that,” he said.

Smith said ultimately, South African cricket will benefit as a whole from the scale and scope of a series like the Betway SA20.

“In terms of scheduling, it’s never ideal to have what’s happened, but over the years we will get better at it.  Betway is a four-week tournament out of a whole year, so I truly believe we can co-exist,” he said.

Meanwhile, former Protea captain Faf du Plessis is back in yellow for the Joburg Super Kings. 

The Super Kings will take on the Sunrisers Eastern Cape and title holders in the opening game of the series.  Du Plessis said even though home ground advantage is important, your home ground can still throw a few surprises at you. He said to win, it is crucial to adapt to conditions and let go of a strategy if it doesn’t serve the team.

The Betway SA20 series starts tomorrow in Gqeherba at St George’s Park and play starts at 17:30.

OFM Sport