Durban Super Giants (DSG) have officially appointed Aiden Markram as their captain for the upcoming SA20 2025-26 season, announcing the move with an eye-catching AI-generated video depicting him steering a ship through stormy seas toward success.
Proven Leader in T20 Cricket
Markram, already recognized as one of South Africa’s premier leaders, has an impressive track record in the SA20 league. He led Sunrisers Eastern Cape to consecutive titles in 2023 and 2024 and currently captains South Africa’s T20I side, further highlighting his leadership credentials.
Record-Breaking Auction Move
The South African batter parted ways with Sunrisers Eastern Cape ahead of the season, becoming one of the most coveted players in the recent SA20 auction. After a tense bidding war, DSG secured Markram for a record 14 million rand, briefly the highest price in league history, until Pretoria Capitals acquired Dewald Brevis for 16.5 million rand.
Strategic Signing for DSG
For DSG, a franchise yet to win an SA20 title, Markram’s signing is both a marquee acquisition and a strategic move. The team reached the 2024 final, only to fall short against Markram’s former side, and finished at the bottom of the table the previous season, prompting major squad overhauls.
Strengthened Squad for 2025-26
In addition to Markram, DSG made significant additions at the auction, including fast bowler Gerald Coetzee for 7.4 million rand, teenage pacer Kwena Maphaka for 2.3 million rand, and Bangladesh spinner Taijul Islam, marking the first appearance by a Bangladeshi player in the league. Domestic talents such as Ethan Bosch, Andile Simelane, and Marques Ackerman provide further balance and depth.
With Lance Klusener continuing as head coach and Markram taking charge as captain, expectations are high that the Durban Super Giants can finally clinch their maiden SA20 trophy in the 2025-26 season.