Graeme Smith Appointed Commissioner of New South Africa T20 League
Right now, a new league in the T20 format is emerging on the territory of South Africa, which, according to some sources, will seriously compete with the IPL in its popularity. On the eve, it became known that Graeme Smith was appointed commissioner of the New South Africa T20 League.
This means that the ex-captain of the South Africa national team will monitor all operations taking place inside the league. Graeme will also be responsible for promoting the brand of the New T20 League.
Graeme was appointed to this position for a reason — Smith has experience in the national team. Plus, Graeme had previously worked for the South Africa Cricket Board. He understands very well how cricket works in the country, and Graeme can create one of the strongest leagues in the world.
Graeme Smith himself has already managed to note that the appointment to such a serious position is a great honor for him. The specialist said that he is very strongly associated with South African cricket, and Graeme believes that the New South Africa T20 League can become one of the best in the league.
“For me, the appointment to this responsible position is a big honor. I am deeply committed to South African cricket and pleased to serve the game for as long as possible. I am glad I was given the opportunity to present such an ambitious project that can attract large investments. I will do my best to ensure that this league gives players worldwide new opportunities,” said Graeme Smith.
The first match of the new tournament is scheduled for January-February 2023
It is reported that Graeme Smith will begin active work in the near future. The first official task of the commissioner of the New South Africa T20 League will be to approve the franchises participating in the new project. It is reported that the first match of the new tournament is scheduled for January-February 2023.
Graeme Smith has never held a senior position, but South Africa Cricket Board officials express their full confidence in Graeme Smith. The day before, Pholetsi Moseki, Executive Director of the CSA, spoke about the high professionalism of the new commissioner of the national championship of South Africa. The expert noted that he knows Graeme perfectly well as an excellent specialist.
“I worked closely with Graeme while working together on the Council. I think he is ideally suited for this position: his expert understanding of the local and international environment for playing cricket will ensure the new league’s excellent development. I think he will be able to cope perfectly with a new role. The creation of a new product will attract large investments to cricket in South Africa, allowing us to develop further,” Moseki said.
ICC representatives speak negatively about the creation of a new league
It should be noted that some representatives of the ICC talk negatively about creating a new league in South Africa. Functionaries believe that the emergence of another major project will hit international cricket very hard.
The strongest players will have to be involved in the new major league, and recently professionals are increasingly determined to play in national championships rather than in international competitions.
