'Got to be on it from day one': Stubbs eyes strong start as Sunrisers Eastern Cape defend SA20 crown
Johannesburg, Aug 7
Sunrisers Eastern Cape captain Tristan Stubbs believes a strong start will be crucial as the three-time champions begin their SA20 title defence, saying his side must be at its best from the opening game against Pretoria Capitals in Gqeberha on January 17.
The defending champions, who have lifted the SA20 trophy three times in four editions in 2023, 2024 and 2026, will once again start as one of the favourites after strengthening their squad with Australia all-rounder Mitchell Marsh, who is set to make his debut in South Africa's franchise T20 league.
"It's a big game to start. It's probably what you want. Get the ball going. Got to be on it from day one, which will be awesome and hopefully we can really set the competition up for everyone from there," Stubbs told SA20
Sunrisers' opening fixture against Pretoria Capitals is a repeat of last season's final and will be played at St George's Park, where the Port Elizabeth-born Stubbs expects another packed house.
"It will be awesome. I think it starts when we play a couple of warm-up games before, and the social media teams put it out that there's been people there. It's like three or four days out.
"I know the public will be desperate for some sport by then. People come down from the nearby towns. Everyone's in orange. It's just so much fun. Hopefully some good weather. It will be packed, so it will be awesome," he said.
Stubbs has been with Sunrisers Eastern Cape since the inaugural edition and has witnessed the franchise emerge as the most successful side in SA20 history under head coach Adrian Birrell, winning three titles in four seasons despite changes in personnel and leadership.
Looking ahead to the new campaign, the skipper backed Mitchell van Buuren and JP King to make a significant impact if given opportunities.
"I feel like we're quite a settled side. Mitch van Buuren is someone who, if he gets a game, will take his chance. JP King is also a really young, exciting talent. Between the two of them, whenever they get a game, I feel like one of them will grab it with both hands," Stubbs said.
Season 5 of the SA20 will run from January 17 to February 21, 2027, with the final also scheduled to be played in Gqeberha.
— IANS
Reader Comments
Three titles in four seasons is no joke. Sunrisers Eastern Cape have built a proper dynasty there. The atmosphere in Gqeberha sounds amazing - packed stadiums, everyone in orange. Reminds me of how crazy it gets here during IPL season. Franchise cricket has truly gone global. 🌍
I appreciate Stubbs' honesty about needing to start strong. Too many captains talk about "taking it game by game" but he's clearly learned from experience that in a short tournament, momentum matters. Also nice to see him backing the young players like JP King - that's how you build a squad for the long run.
The SA20 is genuinely underrated. While everyone focuses on IPL, this league has quietly become one of the best T20 competitions outside India. The St George's Park crowd is always electric - those clips from last season's final were crazy. Stubbs leading from the front again will be key. 💪
While I love the competitive spirit, I do think there's a slight over-reliance on overseas players in these leagues. Having said that, Stubbs mentioning Mitchell van Buuren and JP King shows they're developing local talent too. That balance is important for South African cricket's future.
Stubbs is quickly becoming one of the most respected captains in franchise cricket. The way he handles pressure and keeps the squad focused despite all the changes they've seen over four years - that's leadership. Excited to see if they can make it four titles. Mark my words, they'll be in the final
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