02|08|2026

Defending Betway SA20 champions Sunrisers Eastern Cape have sent an early statement of intent by signing Australian T20 captain Mitch Marsh ahead of Season 5. The three-time champions have made it clear that they are determined to chase an unprecedented fourth consecutive title.

With Jonny Bairstow no longer part of the squad, securing Marsh before the player auction is a shrewd piece of business. The Australian is expected to partner Quinton de Kock at the top of the order, with the Proteas wicketkeeper-batter enjoying a career resurgence after joining the Sunrisers from Durban's Super Giants last season.

The prospect of Marsh and De Kock opening together is one that should excite SA20 fans. Marsh is one of the most destructive T20 batters in world cricket, while De Kock finished as the tournament's leading run-scorer last season. Their combination has the potential to become one of the most explosive opening partnerships in the competition.

Marsh's signing also brings far more than his batting ability. He offers valuable leadership experience, having captained Australia in the shortest format, and his presence will provide another experienced voice in the dressing room. That could prove invaluable for Tristan Stubbs as he continues to grow into his leadership role.

With only two overseas spots remaining in the squad, it will be interesting to see how Sunrisers Eastern Cape approach the auction. Their top order, middle order, power-hitting options, players familiar with home conditions and pace attack all appear well covered. Spin is perhaps the one area that could still be strengthened. The squad currently has only two specialist spinners, making another spin option—possibly even a wrist spinner—a logical target, despite the franchise having never selected a wrist spinner in the first four seasons of the SA20.