Graeme Smith happy SA20 is contributing to Proteas talent pool in white-ball cricket

Former Proteas captain and SA20 League Commissioner Graeme Smith is pleased to see the tournament continuing to contribute to South Africa’s international talent pipeline, with Matthew Breetzke, Dewald Brevis and Tristan Stubbs making waves in England and Australia.

The SA20 has undoubtedly transformed the landscape of South African cricket over the past three years. Public interest has reignited, and players are more motivated than ever, knowing that strong performances in the league can fast-track their international careers.

Already, the country is reaping the rewards of the league’s inception and success. Breetzke, Brevis and Stubbs have all impressed in the SA20 before stepping up to the Proteas, where they’ve played key roles in back-to-back ODI series wins — one Down Under and the other more recently in England.

Smith is proud to see the league fulfilling its original promise of bolstering the national team’s talent pool.

“South African cricket has improved dramatically from where it was four or five years ago,” Smith told the media on Friday.

“I think the exciting thing for us is that we feel we've definitely contributed to the growing depth of domestic players available for selection. From the start, we've been very clear that we want to benefit South African cricket.”

Smith pointed to the international exposure the SA20 provides, which has opened new doors for local players.

“We’ve been exposing players on a global stage every year, and that can only benefit the system. I’m also very happy to see we haven’t destroyed Test cricket — we can still win World Test Championship finals with the SA20 around.

“If you look at someone like Delano Potgieter now playing in the CPL — that sort of opportunity wouldn’t have been available without the SA20.”

Following South Africa’s five-run win over England at Lord’s on Thursday, the Proteas secured an unassailable 2-0 lead in the three-match series.

“Besides the results, what we’re seeing now is a really strong talent pool developing just below the established players like Temba [Bavuma] or [Kagiso] Rabada,” Smith said.

“You're starting to see that next level grow and develop into high-performing players for the national team. The squad depth is starting to look really strong across all formats.

“They’ve got big challenges ahead this year — tours to Pakistan and India — and those will be key in terms of learning and growth. Hopefully they can carry this momentum forward.

“But it’s been fantastic to see the depth of talent evolve into international performers — and for them to be winning in tough environments is a real positive.”

The SA20 auction is set to take place in Johannesburg on Tuesday with stars such as two-time title-winning captain Aiden Markram going under the hammer.