SA20 is really growing in profile: Roelof van der Merwe

Defending champions Sunrisers Eastern Cape (SEC) take on MI Cape Town (MICT) in the opening match of the SA20 2025 at St George's Park, Gqeberha. Sunrisers head coach Adrian Birrell has retained plenty of his core players, including skipper Aiden Markram and the leading wicket-takers in the tournament's history — Ottneil Baartman and Marco Jansen.

However, in what could be the missing puzzle, the side have recruited Roelof van der Merwe back into the team. The all-rounder played a key role in the Sunriser's title-winning campaign in the first season. 

Speaking ahead of the curtain-raiser, Van der Merwe was pleased to see the growth of SA20. “Obviously, after the first season and having won the competition, it’s great to be back, and hopefully we can do that again,” said Van der Merwe, according to a media release from SA20.

“Leaving for a season and coming back, I’ve really got to work for my spot and put my hand up when I have an opportunity.

“I think SA20 is something special in terms of the crowds. The cricket is good, and with the international players coming here, the SA20 is really growing in profile.

“I think Adi [Birrell] has also brought a real meaning to us playing the game. There’s a lot of passionate supporters here and you can see how they conduct themselves with the band. It’s unbelievable how vibey they are.”

Van der Merwe, 40, currently represents the Netherlands at the international level, and played 13 ODIs and as many T20Is for South Africa in 2009 and 2010.