After a riveting auction in September, the Durban’s Super Giants (DSG) have one goal in sight: to conquer the Betway SA20 Season 4 and finally etch their name into the history books.

Since the league’s inception in 2023, the Super Giants have been on a rollercoaster journey. They started with promise but finished fifth in their debut season.

A year later, in 2024, they came agonizingly close to glory, only to fall short in the final. However, 2025 brought heartbreak - the team endured a tough campaign, languishing at the bottom of the table with just 12 points.

Now, with a revamped and star-studded squad, DSG appear hungrier than ever. Backed by the addition of proven T20 champions and dynamic match-winners, they’ll be looking to turn their fortunes around and bring the trophy home to Kingsmead.

The headline act from the auction was none other than Aiden Markram, the two-time SA20-winning captain who became DSG’s most expensive signing at a whopping R14 million. His inclusion, alongside a mix of seasoned internationals and explosive local talent, could prove to be the catalyst the team needs.

As the countdown to the new season begins, let’s take a closer look at five players who could define DSG’s campaign this year.

Aiden Markram:

All eyes will be on Aiden Markram, South Africa’s T20I captain and one of the most successful leaders in SA20 history. A natural tactician and a proven winner, Markram brings both stability and flair to the Super Giants’ lineup.

Across 36 SA20 matches, he has amassed 967 runs at a strike rate of 131.39, including a century and five half-centuries. His contributions with the ball are equally noteworthy - 17 wickets at an impressive economy of 6.87 showcase his all-round prowess.

On the international front, Markram’s numbers underline his pedigree with 1,467 runs at a strike rate of 145.82 in 62 T20Is, alongside 15 wickets. His leadership, composure under pressure, and experience in title-winning environments make him the backbone of DSG’s Season 4 ambitions.

Heinrich Klaasen:

When it comes to sheer batting firepower, Heinrich Klaasen is in a league of his own. One of the few players retained by DSG, Klaasen’s consistency and explosive style make him indispensable.

He stands as the second-highest run-scorer in SA20 history, with 1,008 runs in 33 matches at a jaw-dropping strike rate of 172.9, including one century and nine fifties. His ability to dismantle spin and pace alike has made him one of the most feared batters in the league.

Internationally, Klaasen has mirrored that dominance, racking up 1,000 runs in 58 T20Is at a healthy strike rate of 141.84, along with five fifties. Expect fireworks every time he walks out in DSG colours.

Jos Buttler:

The Super Giants have secured a global superstar in Jos Buttler, who is set to make his debut season with the franchise. The former England T20I captain and 2022 T20 World Cup-winning leader brings a wealth of experience and a knack for match-defining performances.

In SA20, Buttler has already left his mark with 799 runs in 22 matches, striking at 138 and notching up seven fifties. Known for his calm under pressure and devastating acceleration in the death overs, he’ll be eyeing his first SA20 century this season.

Globally, Buttler’s record speaks volumes - 3,869 runs in 144 T20Is at a staggering strike rate of 148.97, including 28 half-centuries and a top score of 101*. His presence instantly elevates the Super Giants’ batting depth and leadership strength.

Gerald Coetzee:

South Africa’s young speedster Gerald Coetzee is all set to reignite the pace attack for DSG. At just 25, Coetzee already commands attention with his raw pace and wicket-taking ability.

He took the league by storm in the inaugural 2023 season, bagging 17 wickets in just five innings. Although he missed the 2024 edition and had a quiet 2025 season with only two wickets, Coetzee’s potential remains unquestionable.

In total, he has 19 wickets in 10 SA20 matches, with a best of 4/24 and an economy of 8.32. For South Africa, he’s claimed 14 wickets in 13 T20Is, proving he can perform at the highest level. Under Lance Klusner’s guidance, Coetzee could very well become the X-factor in DSG’s bowling arsenal.

Noor Ahmad:

Afghanistan’s Noor Ahmad continues to be one of DSG’s most prized assets. The young left-arm wrist-spinner, just 20 years old, has already become a match-winner with his crafty variations and unplayable googlies.

Since his 2024 debut, Noor has scalped 25 wickets in 16 SA20 matches, maintaining an economy of 6.46 and an outstanding average of 14.56. His best bowling figures of 5/11 stand as proof of his ability to turn games on its head at any given time.

For Afghanistan, Noor has also made his mark, with 18 wickets in 22 T20Is at an economy of 6.68. His control, temperament, and ability to handle pressure make him one of the most exciting young bowlers in world cricket.

The road ahead

With a rejuvenated squad, a sharp think tank led by Lance Klusner, and a blend of international stars and homegrown talents, the Durban’s Super Giants have all the ingredients to mount a serious title challenge.  

Image Courtesy: ESPNCricInfo