A rivalry between two major franchise cricket leagues, South Africaof SA20 and UAEof ILT20turned into a war of words.
SA20, which begins its third edition on January 9 and ends on February 8, coincides with ILT20, which runs from January 11 to February 9, 2025. Graeme Smithformer South African cricket captain and current commissioner of the SA20. In response, the former Indian cricketer hit back with a scathing criticism.
SA20 vs ILT20: Clash between two cricket franchises
Speaking about the ILT20, Smith highlighted the distinct identity of the SA20 and criticized the UAE-based league, which he said differentiates the SA20 from the ILT20 by being primarily a South African league focused on developing and benefitting South African players.
“We see ourselves very differently from ILT20. We are a South African league with a majority of South African players and our main objective is to benefit South African players.” Smith said at the Captains Day press conference in Cape Town.
Graeme Smith’s scathing remarks on ILT20
Smith stated that the SA20 is positioned differently than the ILT20, making it difficult for him not to criticize the league. He believes that over-reliance on international players without investing in domestic cricket is detrimental to the game and poses a problem for the future of global cricket.
“We’re set up against the ILT20, so it’s hard for me not to come across as bad mouthing them, but I feel like a league like that isn’t good for the game; that many international players are required to build a team; no investment in domestic cricket. This is a problem for the world game and something that needs to be managed going forward“he added.
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Indian legend responds with a sharp retort
In a fiery reply, the former Indian cricketer Virender Sehwag Taking a dig at Smith, he said Smith’s comments were fueled by jealousy because the ILT20 attracts numerous international stars unlike the SA20. He also noted that the ILT20 benefits from a mix of established players and homegrown UAE talent who have gained valuable experience playing alongside the legends.
“I feel jealous there because we get a lot of international stars, whereas their league is starved of international players like that. I understand his pain but this is better for ILT20. Here you can see established players as well as some local UAE talent rubbing shoulders with legends and seasoned professionals.” Sehwag Snitch said on his YouTube channel.
