Johannesburg – South African cricket will for the first time enjoy a global television audience when the flagship domestic T20 competition, the RAM SLAM T20 Challenge, will be beamed worldwide this season. Cricket South Africa(CSA) has concluded a deal with Dubai-based broadcaster and Asian Proteas cricket rights holders, TAJ TV.
“We are thrilled that our domestic RAM SLAM T20 competition will be televised globally showcasing some big players. This will give our competition a new meaning.” said CSA chief executive, Haroon Lorgat.
The matches televised by Supersport in South Africa will now also be shown live on Ten Sports in Asia and the Middle East.
The first of these broadcasts will take place on January 5.
“Cricket fans around the world will be able to watch live the high quality cricket that we anticipate. It is pleasing to see how many great international players wish to play in South Africa.” added Lorgat.
Henry Davids, captain of The Unlimited Titans, said: “Having top players from overseas gives the competition a truly international flavour. It's an absolute pleasure having Saeed Ajmal, the best T20 bowler in the world, available for us. I know he is going to be great for us as a franchise and for the younger players in our squad. He'll definitely help us to be a real force in the competition in January.”
Wayne Parnell of the Chevrolet Warriors and a Proteas all-rounder said: “The timing of the competition is perfect as it leads into the ICC World Twenty20 in Bangladesh in March. Virtually all the Proteas will be in action, not to mention the stars from overseas, and it will be the perfect window to show the strength of South African cricket to the world.”
There will be19 matches televised with more to be added towards the latter end of the tournament.
Rajesh Sethi, CEO of Ten Sports, said:” We are excited to partner with Cricket South Africa for the telecast of RAM SLAM T20. We look forward to exciting cricket involving players from many Test-playing nations.” – Sapa