Mzansi Super League Explained
A guide to the Mzansi Super League (MSL) — South Africa's original franchise T20 competition that preceded the SA20 — its teams, history, and legacy.
What Was the Mzansi Super League?
The Mzansi Super League (MSL) was South Africa's first major franchise T20 competition, launched by Cricket South Africa (CSA) in November 2018. It ran for two seasons (2018 and 2019) before being placed on hiatus due to financial pressures on Cricket South Africa, and was ultimately replaced by the SA20 when a new ownership model was established for the 2023 season.
Teams
The MSL featured six city-based franchises: Cape Town Blitz, Durban Heat, Jozi Stars, Nelson Mandela Bay Giants, Paarl Rocks, and Tshwane Spartans. These teams drew from South Africa's traditional six provincial cricket associations but operated as separate franchise identities.
Seasons
The inaugural MSL season in 2018 was won by Jozi Stars, who defeated Cape Town Blitz in the final. The 2019 edition was won by Tshwane Spartans. Both seasons ran in November–December, attracting a number of overseas players alongside South Africa's top Proteas stars.
Why Did the MSL Stop?
CSA faced severe financial difficulties in 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic, and the MSL was suspended. When CSA rebuilt its financial structure, the decision was taken to sell team licences to IPL franchise owners — creating the SA20 competition with private investment rather than board-funded franchises. The SA20 launched in January 2023 with the same six provincial cities as the MSL.
Frequently asked questions
Is the MSL the same as the SA20?
No — the MSL was CSA-funded and ran in 2018–19. The SA20 is privately owned by IPL franchise investors and launched in 2023. They share the same city footprint but are distinct competitions.
Who won the Mzansi Super League?
Jozi Stars won the inaugural 2018 title and Tshwane Spartans won in 2019.
Why did South Africa need two franchise T20 competitions?
The MSL and SA20 were not simultaneous — the MSL was replaced by the SA20. The switch was driven by the need for private investment and a more sustainable commercial model after the MSL's financial challenges.