"The IPL happened in South Africa, and we can do the same" - Mark Boucher on possibility of hosting SA20 in India

Former South African keeper Mark Boucher believes that conducting the country's premier T20 league, SA20, in India could be a wonderful idea.

Pointing out how South Africa hosted the Indian Premier League season in 2009, Boucher stated that taking SA20 to India would be an exciting prospect. He also emphasised that both countries share a wonderful relationship, making the move a viable option.

Speaking to PTI, Boucher said:

"I think it's a great idea. I'm not against it. The IPL happened in South Africa, and we can do the same, as both cricketing nations share a great relationship. Although the challenges of playing in India will be different, it will still be great. Maybe Graeme Smith (SA20 commissioner) can work on it."

Boucher is hopeful of the SA20 reaping great benefits for South Africa, just as the IPL has done for Indian cricket over the years. Elaborating on the same, he added:

"IPL has boosted youngsters in India. The first edition of SA20 was a success despite being a trial one; the crowd came in large numbers to watch high-quality cricket. The one thing we can learn from the IPL is how it has boosted the youngsters in India, and that's exactly what we are trying to do here."

The inaugural season of the SA20 was played in January 2023. A total of six teams competed in the tournament. The Sunrisers Eastern Cape were crowned the first-ever champions by beating the Pretoria Capitals in the summit clash.

It is worth mentioning that all six teams in the SA20 are owned by IPL owners. The second edition of the T20 tournament kicked off on January 10.

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"We need to get the scheduling right" - Mark Boucher on South Africa selecting an inexperienced squad for New Zealand Test series

South Africa are set to tour New Zealand for a two-match Test series in February. However, all of their main players will be unavailable for the red-ball games, given that the rubber coincides with the ongoing SA20.

The Proteas have named an inexperienced squad for the Test series, a move that has not gone down well with many experts and fans. Speaking about the issue, Mark Boucher said:

"Something has to be done; we need to get the scheduling right. Our best players are playing in the league (SA20), which is needed for it to be a success. This tournament was on the cards for a long time, so there should have been discussions with New Zealand to reschedule the tour. Test cricket is the ultimate format of the game, and you want the best teams playing against each other."

The first Test between South Africa and New Zealand will be played at Bay Oval in Mount Maunganui from February 4 to 8.