New Delhi, January 27 – Former South Africa captain and SA20 league commissioner Graeme Smith has hailed the tournament as a golden platform for young cricketers to shine. In an exclusive interview, Smith spotlighted the remarkable performances of Tristan Stubbs, Dewald Brevis, and Nkokobani Mokoeana, crediting the league for unearthing and nurturing their talents.
Smith emphasized the pivotal role of Cricket South Africa and SA20 in giving opportunities to emerging stars. ‘Players like Nkokobani Mokoeana have shown incredible potential in tough situations,’ he said. ‘The league has been instrumental in bringing out the best in youngsters like Brevis and Stubbs over the past few seasons.’
Turning to Stubbs, Smith noted his resurgence in the fourth season of SA20. Despite a lean patch that cost him a spot in the T20 World Cup 2026 squad initially, Stubbs captained Sunrisers Eastern Cape and delivered match-winning knocks. In the final against Pretoria Capitals on January 25, with his team reeling at 48/4 chasing 159, Stubbs forged an unbeaten 114-run partnership with Britzke. His explosive 63 off 41 balls, including four sixes and two fours, sealed a six-wicket victory and the team’s third title.
‘Devwald Brevis also smashed a century for Pretoria in that final,’ Smith added, underscoring the high-stakes drama. Stubbs’ consistent big-match temperament in SA20, IPL, and for South Africa has rebuilt his confidence, positioning him as a key player for the upcoming World Cup.
Meanwhile, 19-year-old fast bowler Nkokobani Mokoeana impressed with 13 wickets in 9 innings for Paarl Royals in the 2025-26 season, his best being 4/34. Ranked fourth among wicket-takers, his consistency signals a bright international future. SA20 continues to be a breeding ground for South Africa’s next generation of cricket stars.