New Delhi, Dec 2 (NationPress) Jacques Kallis, the former all-rounder for South Africa, has acknowledged the SA20 league for the recent boost in competitiveness of the men’s cricket team in International Cricket Council (ICC) tournaments. He drew parallels to the impact the Indian Premier League (IPL) had during its formative years on Indian cricket.

The fourth season of SA20 arrives at a pivotal moment when the men’s team is enjoying a strong trajectory in ICC tournaments. In 2025, they not only made it to the semifinals of the Champions Trophy but also clinched the World Test Championship (WTC) title for the first time. Prior to this, South Africa reached the semifinals of the 2023 ODI World Cup and secured a runner-up position in the 2024 T20 World Cup.

"This is significant; it's not merely coincidental that our competitiveness in ICC tournaments has surged. We always wished for something like this to emerge in South Africa sooner, as we witnessed the transformation IPL brought to Indian cricket. The strength of Indian cricket today is largely attributed to the IPL," Kallis remarked during a virtual discussion with IANS ahead of the fourth season of SA20, set to take place from December 26 to January 25.

"SA20 has undeniably contributed to our consistency and competitiveness. Players are now performing under increased pressure, and the overall quality of cricket has improved significantly. This league has played a crucial role in the advancement of South African cricket over the past three to four years since its inception," he added.

Kallis also shared his insights regarding fast-bowling all-rounder Corbin Bosch, who has been a consistent member of the South African squad since last year and recently scored 67 runs against India in the ODI series opener held in Ranchi.

Bosch was part of South Africa’s victorious U19 World Cup team in 2014 but made his senior international debut at the age of 30, claiming 11 wickets as the third-highest wicket-taker in MI Cape Town’s championship victory over the past year.

"I recognized his potential a few years back. Although it took time for him to break into the senior team, he has finally made it, gaining confidence as a versatile all-rounder. He delivers a heavy ball, bowls in the 140s, and strikes hard. He is adaptable and can bat anywhere in the order," Kallis expressed.

"It’s fantastic to see him thriving, along with the rise of other all-rounders. A strong contingent of all-rounders undoubtedly strengthens the team, whether for South Africa or during SA20. I'm thrilled to see Bosch embracing his talent and hope he has a standout tournament ahead," Kallis concluded.