Virat Kohli and Jasprit Bumrah are two of the biggest names in world cricket, making it no surprise that former South African pacer Allan Donald wishes to see the Indian stars compete in SA20.
The third season of South Africa’s premier T20 league kicks off in February 2025, and Donald believes their inclusion would elevate the tournament to new heights.
When asked which players he’d love to see in SA20, Donald said, “Oh my gosh, where do I even start? If I’m picking a batter, it’s Virat Kohli, 100 percent. And if it’s a bowler, it has to be Bumrah. Can you imagine the impact of having Indian players in SA20? Just one per team would take the competition to a whole new level. My picks would undoubtedly be Kohli and Bumrah.”
Currently, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) does not permit active Indian players to participate in global leagues. However, retired Indian players are free to join T20 competitions worldwide.
Donald also expressed enthusiasm for Dinesh Karthik’s inclusion in SA20, where the veteran cricketer will play for the Paarl Royals. Karthik announced his retirement from Indian cricket earlier this year, clearing the way for his participation.
“It’s fantastic to see a legend like Dinesh Karthik involved in SA20,” Donald remarked. “He’s such an intelligent cricketer and a breath of fresh air, both on the field and in the commentary box. To have someone with his wealth of IPL experience playing in this tournament is a masterstroke. Young cricketers worldwide look up to Indian superstars, and having someone like Karthik in SA20 will only enhance its appeal.”
Donald believes Karthik’s presence is a testament to the growing stature of SA20, which continues to attract global attention.
The first two editions of SA20 were won by Sunrisers Eastern Cape under Aiden Markram’s leadership. With franchises owned by IPL teams, the tournament has already garnered a significant following among Indian audiences.
As SA20 heads into its third season, the addition of players like Karthik and the potential for others in the future underscores its ambition to become a global T20 powerhouse.