The SA20 league, which began with immense ambition, has grown into one of the most exciting T20 tournaments globally. Launched in 2023, it quickly gained traction, attracting some of the best cricketing talents from around the world. Now, heading into its third season in 2025, the league promises even more thrilling action. Ahead of the tournament we have done some fact checking and listed down the top run scorers over the two seasons in SA20.
The scheduling of this year’s tournament has been adjusted to avoid clashes with South Africa’s international fixtures, ensuring that the tournament’s stars can shine uninterrupted. In a league where players from various countries come together to compete in fast-paced, high-energy matches, the focus often falls on the batters. The power-hitters, those who can take the game away from the opposition with a few mighty strokes, are the ones who capture the imagination of the fans.
The top run-scorers of SA20’s history stand testament to the incredible batting talent this league has produced. From destructive South African stars to world-renowned international players, the league has seen some remarkable performances.
As the third season is set to begin, the anticipation of who will top the charts in runs is building. Let’s take a closer look at the top 5 run-scorers in the league’s short history, and examine the impact they’ve had in making SA20 one of the most exciting T20 leagues globally.
Top Run-scorers in SA20
5. Leus du Plooy
Team – Joburg Super Kings| Runs – 626
Leus du Plooy, the 29-year-old left-handed middle-order batsman from Joburg Super Kings, has been consistent across both the 2023 and 2024 seasons, scoring 626 runs in 19 innings. His highest score is 81* not out, and his average stands at 44.71, with a strike rate of 149.76. Known for his stylish stroke play, du Plooy has been a key contributor, scoring five half-centuries and showcasing his ability to dominate in crucial situations.
4. Aiden Markram
Team – Sunrisers Eastern Cape| Runs – 627
Aiden Markram, the captain of the 2024 champions Sunrisers Eastern Cape, is a right-handed batsman with a remarkable ability to strike the ball. With 627 runs in 21 innings, including one century and two half-centuries, Markram’s attacking style and aggressive intent have made him one of the most valuable players in SA20. His quick-fire 30s and 40s are as significant as his big knocks, contributing greatly to his team’s success.
3. Ryan Rickelton
Team – MI Cape Town| Runs – 676
Ryan Rickelton, the 28-year-old wicketkeeper and attacking batsman from MI Cape Town, has impressed with his consistency. In just 17 innings, he has scored 676 runs at an average of 42.25 and a strike rate of 155.76. Known for his destructive style, Rickelton has been a crucial player for MI Cape Town, scoring multiple entertaining innings, including five half-centuries.
2. Jos Butler
Team – Paarl Royals| Runs – 799
The English wicketkeeper-batsman, known for his explosive hitting, has been a standout performer in SA20. Although he won’t be participating in this year’s season after being drafted from Paarl Royals, his impact in the league remains significant. Buttler scored 799 runs in 22 innings, with a highest score of 70 not out, averaging around 40 with a strike rate of 138.
Despite not hitting a century, he managed to score 7 half-centuries, showcasing his ability to anchor the innings and accelerate when required. His powerful hitting, particularly in the powerplay, made him a very special player for his team. SA20 fans will surely miss his presence this season.
1. Heinrich Klaasen
Team – Durban Super Giants| Runs – 810
Heinrich Klaasen, the destructive South African batsman, tops the list with 810 runs in 22 innings. His impressive average of 47.64 and strike rate of 185.77 reflect his power-hitting ability. Klaasen is known for his ability to hit massive sixes, irrespective of the bowler’s style - whether fast or spin. His fearless and aggressive batting has made him one of the most dangerous T20 players in the world.
