Archive · 5 Sep 2025
SA20 Auction: Smith Discusses Indian Player Absence
The SA20 cricket league is having an auction, but active Indian players won't be in it.
This is because the Indian cricket board (BCCI) doesn't let active Indian cricketers play in leagues overseas to protect the IPL.
Former players like Dinesh Karthik can participate.
Graeme Smith, the SA20 League Commissioner, stated that it is a normal situation.
There are many overseas and South African players available.
The opening match and final will be held at Newlands on January 25.
Former India captain Sourav Ganguly will coach Pretoria Capitals.
The season starts December 26.
No active Indian players are in the SA20 auction pool.
The BCCI restricts active Indian cricketers from playing in overseas leagues.
241 overseas and 308 South African players will participate in the auction.
Graeme Smith describes the situation regarding Indian players as "fluid."
Sourav Ganguly will coach Pretoria Capitals in the SA20 season.
- Who
- Graeme Smith, League Commissioner; various players
- What
- SA20 auction lacks active Indian players
- When
- September 9, 2025 for the auction; SA20 2025-26 season
- Where
- Johannesburg, South Africa
- Why
- BCCI policy restricts active Indian cricketers from playing in overseas leagues
- Auction Date
- September 9, 2025
- Location
- Johannesburg, South Africa
- Overseas Players in Auction
- 241
- South African Players in Auction
- 308
- Opening Match & Final Location
- Newlands
- Opening Match and Final Date
- January 25
- Season 4 Start Date
- December 26
- Defending Champions Opening Match
- MI Cape Town vs Durban's Super Giants
