Western Cape derby to kick off SA20, Wanderers to host final

The fixtures for the inaugural season of the SA20 have been announced with the opener set to take place on 10 January 2023 at Newlands.

Cricket South Africa (CSA) released the full schedule of 33 matches on Tuesday, with all six Indian Premier League (IPL) owned franchises to host games across six venues. 

The SA20 will get underway on Tuesday, 10 January at Newlands Cricket Ground for a Western Cape derby, which sees MI Cape Town hosting Paarl Royals.

All six SA20 teams will have five home and away matches to "maximise fan engagement and brand identity growth". 

"Releasing fixtures for the opening season is a milestone for us all at SA20," league commissioner, Graeme Smith said in a statement.

"It's all getting very real, we certainly can't wait to watch the world's best go head-to-head. Fans can look forward to the blockbuster schedule kicking off with the popular local derby between MI Cape Town and Paarl Royals on 10 January.  

"Fans will be able to watch the best local and international T20 stars live in action at prime viewing times for the afternoon and evening matches. This is also an ideal broadcasting slot ensuring viewers around the world can also keep up with the enthralling entertainment."

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The opening game, along with the remaining 32 matches, will all be broadcast exclusively live on SuperSport in Sub-Saharan Africa and Viacom18 Sports in India.

The SA20 final will be staged at the Wanderers on Saturday, 11 February, where the first-ever SA20 champions will be crowned.

"The Wanderers has hosted many memorable finals throughout the years, we expect a full house in attendance to watch the first-ever SA20 Champions lifting the trophy," said Smith.

"We are thankful to have the buy-in from all six