'It's just on another level...' - Graeme Smith compares SA20 to IPL as a league in world cricket

The SA20 has gained a lot of popularity in recent years after the completion of two seasons. Both the seasons of the tournament were won by Sunrisers Eastern Cape, captained by Aiden Markram. On the SA20 Captains Day, former South Africa cricketer Graeme Smith spoke about the tournament and how it will emerge in the future. He also compared it to the Indian Premier League (IPL) and said they the league is on 'another level'. 

"We've not gone with the impact player rule. We're in an early phase of development and, you know, really also trying to attract new fans to the game in South Africa. So, sticking to kind of, what's worked in T20 cricket for us and introducing fans to the game. But you can't compare to IPL. I mean, it's just on another level. I've been fortunate to win the first year of IPL and be a part of many more from, player, broadcaster. So it's just an incredible thing to be a part of. And, for us, it's an ambition to even be in the same room as the IPL," said Graeme Smith.

The first game of the third season will be between the defending champions Sunrisers Eastern Cape and MI Cape Town at St George's Oval in Gqeberha. The tournament will end on February 8 in a double-round-robin format followed by three playoffs.

India has been a great friend to South Africa: Graeme Smith

Graeme Smith praised India's contribution to South African cricket after they came back to sports. Moreover, Indian fans love some of the Proteas players, including Faf du Plessis and AB de Villiers. Smith also spoke about the fan base South Africa has in India. 

"And, I think since South Africa came back into sports, India has been a great friend to South Africa. The fans in India have certainly built a strong relationship with South African cricket. So, from the SA20 perspective, India is a very important market for us. The fan base here is cricket loving, and we want to grow and make sure that as many people tune in and love the game," added Smith.