Wesgro – the tourism, trade, and investment promotion agency for Cape Town and the Western Cape – proudly participated as the event partner at the official SA20 Season 4 launch event held in Mumbai, India last week, led by South African cricket legend Graham Smith, as the league commissioner.
The partnership forms part of Wesgro’s strategy to double tourism by unlocking access to new international markets, including India.
India: A High-Growth Tourism Opportunity
According to analysts, India’s outbound tourism market is projected to surge from USD 18 billion to USD 55 billion by 2034, presenting a major opportunity for destinations such as Cape Town and the Western Cape. Against this backdrop, Wesgro’s participation in the SA20 launch offered a timely platform to position the province as a preferred destination for Indian travellers.
With India recognised as the heartbeat of world cricket and one of the fastest-growing outbound travel markets globally, the launch provided Wesgro with a valuable opportunity to showcase the Western Cape’s diverse tourism offering and highlight opportunities for travel, investment, and cultural exchange.
Commenting on the partnership, Wrenelle Stander, CEO of Wesgro, said: “This partnership goes beyond sport – it’s about building bridges between cultures, celebrating shared passions, and unlocking opportunities for travel, trade, and investment. India is a crucial growth market for the Western Cape, and platforms like SA20 enable us to showcase why our province truly is a world in one destination.”
Cricket icons Faf du Plessis, David Miller, Hashim Amla and Mark Boucher were also in attendance, sharing personal reflections on what makes the province so special. During the launch, Wesgro also engaged with key India-based travel trade operators to showcase the region’s unique tourism offerings and strengthen future collaborations.
Cricket Icons Amplify the Western Cape’s Appeal
SA20 League Commissioner Graeme Smith also commented, saying: “Our partnership with Wesgro as the event partner for SA20 India Day has been truly groundbreaking. Betway SA20 is where sport and tourism come together, and it was incredible to showcase the beauty and energy of the Western Cape to a global audience.
India has a deep affinity for South Africa, and with the 2027 ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup on the horizon, we’re excited to welcome even more fans to experience what makes our country so special.
Our Western Cape franchises — MI Cape Town and Paarl Royals — have built strong local followings and enjoy incredible support from the passionate local communities, that spirit is what makes this region such a vibrant part of the League. With the SA20 Final already sold out and set to return to Newlands, Cape Town on 25 January 2026, we can’t wait to crown the new champions in one of the world’s most iconic cricketing cities.”
Reflecting on the collaboration, Dr Ivan Meyer, Western Cape Minister of Agriculture, Economic Development and Tourism, said: “Sport has the unique ability to unite people and open doors to economic opportunity, and this partnership underscores our commitment to strengthening ties with India – a country that shares our passion for cricket, culture, and connection. The Western Cape is ready to welcome more visitors from India to experience our vibrant cities and towns, world-class wine routes, and spectacular natural landscapes.
Strengthening Western Cape–India Connections
”Alderman James Vos, Mayoral Committee Member for Economic Growth, City of Cape Town, added: “The synergy between sport and tourism is undeniable. Through global events like the SA20, we are amplifying Cape Town’s reputation as a sporting capital and leading tourism destination. From iconic stadiums to adventure and gastronomy, the Mother City offers experiences that resonate deeply with international audiences, especially cricket-loving markets like India.”
Through this strategic partnership, Wesgro is positioning the Western Cape as the home of world-class sporting and lifestyle experiences and a destination that connects with India’s deep love of cricket and adventure.
