NEW DELHI: The SA20’s much-anticipated Season 3 is set to kick off with the opener between defending champion Sunrisers Eastern Cape and MI Cape Town at St George’s Park on Thursday.
Ahead of the tournament, the Captains’ Day unfolded in Cape Town on Wednesday, with Commissioner Graeme Smith expressing excitement for what promises to be another thrilling season.
Last year’s runners-up, Durban’s Super Giants, are eager to go one step further, and skipper Keshav Maharaj believes their chances have been bolstered significantly by the signing of New Zealand superstar Kane Williamson.
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“When I heard about it (signing him), I actually dropped him a DM,” Maharaj shared with a smile. “I was surprised he replied to me, considering the following that he has. But I think with someone of his pedigree – he’s won many titles for his country and in franchise tournaments. He’s a leader.”
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Williamson’s credentials speak volumes. With 6,442 runs in 254 T20 matches, including a century and 45 half-centuries, he is as consistent as he is dependable.
His average of 31.57 and strike rate of 122.58 underscore his ability to adapt to various situations. Additionally, Williamson has bagged 30 wickets with his part-time off-spin.
However, his impact isn’t limited to personal performance. Williamson has captained New Zealand to four T20 World Cups, reaching the finals in 2021 and the semi-finals twice.
His IPL track record is equally impressive – he guided Sunrisers Hyderabad to the final in 2018, claiming the Orange Cap that season with 735 runs.
Maharaj is confident the veteran’s addition will address specific gaps in their lineup. “He’s phenomenally skilled. He’s probably the best batter I’ve ever bowled to in international cricket. The amount of time and skill he possesses is incredible,” Maharaj noted. “We have a lot of power hitters, but maybe last year we lacked someone who could anchor the innings. That’s the role we see him playing this year.”
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With Williamson onboard as Durban’s very first Kiwi signing, the Super Giants appear poised for another strong campaign. “I’m excited to work with Kane, learn from his knowledge and experiences, and gain insights from his captaincy style,” Maharaj concluded.
