In the first of his monthly columns with online cricket betting site Betway Insider, their new global cricket ambassador makes a few bold predictions for Betway SA20 and commemorates Dean Elgar and David Warner. Betway SA20, also called SA20, is a 20-20 franchisee cricket tournament in South Africa. It started in the 2022-23 season and it is organized by Cricket South Africa (CSA).
Being a former South African cricketer and current Betway ambassador, Graeme Smith is looking forward to getting to know the brand better. He also has some future viewpoints regarding season 2 of SA20.
Graeme Smith’s Future Prospects
Let’s take a look at Smith’s perspective on the upcoming SA20 tournament!
They Dream Big For Betway SA20:
As Smith has been involved in South African cricket from the beginning, he assures that significant efforts have been taken to shape the platform and build a formidable team. By avoiding an exhibition-style tournament, the focus is on showcasing top-tier cricketers and creating a highly competitive environment with top-notch South African and international players.
They have their ambitions set to become the biggest cricket league outside of India and the top sports entertainment brand in South Africa with impressive stadiums, a robust cricketing culture, and an enthusiastic fanbase.
The inclusion of six IPL franchises, globally successful, enhances the league’s position. Their experience in coaching, physio, and medical staff contributes to the long-term benefit of South African cricket.
SA20 Can Raise The Game’s Standards:
The clash between South Africa’s tour of New Zealand presents scheduling challenges, but Smith is optimistic about improvements over time. Test cricket holds a special place in African hearts, and Smith is also dedicated to preserving this format.
As a member of the MCC Committee, he says they have recommended an ICC-generated fund to protect test cricket for the actively participating 6 or 7 nations. Smith also sees significant potential for T20 expansion into new markets, citing the success of the IPL (Indian Political League).
He believes that CSA has also shown its commitment to building and ensuring the success of SA20. Providing opportunities to 70-80 South African players each season and exposing them to large crowds, international broadcasters, and top players worldwide aims to enhance the talent pool for the national team.
Bid Adieu To Dean Elgar:
Smith discusses how he has attended the farewell of Dean Elgar at Newlands. He says that Elgar has always played with passion and unwavering dedication throughout his lifetime. From contributing to their successful team to leading the rebuild after retirement, he embodies the values of South African cricket. Despite not considering himself the most talented player, his incredible achievements stem from mental strength, dedication, and hard work.
Smith also believes that while they have a pool of talented bowlers, their test cricket batting is inconsistent currently. He points out that the average values reveal a lack of stability and Elgar’s departure from the top of the order will be a significant loss for the Proteas.
Smith Is Not The Suitable Replacement For Warner:
The same holds for Australia and David Warner. Having played against Warner, Graeme Smith noted that Warner can set the tone on the field and apply early pressure on opposition attacks. The departure of Warner is now believed to shift pressure onto others, with Graeme Smith finding it intriguing to observe its effects on the team.
There’s a suggestion from the Betway ambassador that Steve Smith might not be an ideal replacement for David Warner, as there are concerns about his ability to face the new ball. Despite Steve Smith’s exceptional skills, Graeme Smith expresses his uncertainties about him.
He also highlights Usman Khawaja’s impressive performance, suggesting that there’s ample on-field experience to consider introducing a new opener without compromising Smith’s contributions in the middle order.
