SA20 commissioner Graeme Smith has expressed his desire to see more Indian players participate in the South African T20 league, adding that it remains an ongoing conversation with the BCCI. So far, former India wicketkeeper-batter Dinesh Karthik is the only Indian cricketer to feature in the SA20, having represented the Paarl Royals last season.
Under the BCCI's current policy, no player who is active in Indian cricket, whether at the international level, in domestic competitions, or in the IPL, is permitted to take part in overseas T20 leagues. This restriction meant that Karthik could join the SA20 only after formally retiring from all Indian cricket. The league itself has a notable Indian connection, with all six franchises owned by IPL team owners.
The fourth season of the SA20 is set to run for a month, from December 26, 2025 to January 25, 2026, across six cities. Although South Africa traditionally hosts a Boxing Day Test starting on December 26, this year the date will instead mark the opening of their premier T20 league.