SA20 and SACA launch schools SA20 scholarship programme to nurture young cricketers

SA20 and the South African Cricketers' Association (SACA) have launched the Schools SA20 Scholarship Programme, a groundbreaking initiative designed to identify and cultivate young cricketing talent across South Africa. 

As part of the prize for winning the Schools SA20 boys' and girls' competitions, one promising Grade 7 cricketer, one boy and one girl will be awarded a full scholarship to attend the winning schools, organisers announced at the launch.

The scholarship will cover annual school fees, hostel fees (if applicable), and additional costs, ensuring that talented young players can receive a top-tier education while honing their cricket skills.

SA20 Commissioner Graeme Smith emphasised the significance of this initiative in supporting emerging cricketers.

"We are proud to partner with SACA to launch this initiative. It is a key part of our commitment to promoting  the development of young cricket talent in South Africa and providing opportunities for them to pursue their dreams," said Smith 

In addition to financial assistance, scholarship recipients will benefit from mentorship provided by a dedicated SACA Player Development Manager (PDM), who will offer guidance on both their cricket and academic journeys.

SACA CEO Andrew Breetzke praised SA20’s direct involvement in school cricket development, calling it a significant step for the sports' future.

"SA20’s direct involvement in the development of cricket at the school level is to be applauded. SACA is proud to collaborate on this initiative and looks forward to supporting the scholarship recipients as they advance through high school," said Breetzke

The competition will start run from March 12 - March 15 in Pretoria at Tuks Oval, where the first-ever Schools SA20 Champions will be crowned.

Cricketers participating in the final on Saturday will be given an experience like no other, with a taste of life as a professional cricketer. In addition to having all their matches televised, the players will go through integrity sessions by SACA (an introductory education session on matters of anti-corruption and anti-doping to help them manage these risks), as well as batting, bowling, and fielding masterclasses with guest coaches AB de Villiers, Dinesha Devnarain, and Kruger van Wyk, along with media education.

The Schools SA20 competition, which began in September 2024, has already attracted significant participation, with over 370 boys' teams and 200 girls' teams competing in more than 1,000 matches across South Africa.

The tournament will culminate at Tuks Oval, where the first-ever Schools SA20 Champions will be crowned.

With SA20’s investment in grassroots cricket, this initiative is set to create new opportunities for young players, ensuring that South Africa’s future cricket stars have the resources and support they need to succeed both on and off the field.

IOL