Jonny Bairstow signs up for Joburg Super Kings in SA20
English wicketkeeper-batter Jonny Bairstow has signed for Joburg Super Kings and will represent the franchise in SA20 2025, which is set to begin in January 2025. The Englishman became the second signing for the Johannesburg-based franchise.
Earlier today, the Joburg Super Kings and Paarl Royals carried out a successful trade for Tabraiz Shamsi and Dayyaan Galiem. The Super Kings signed the mystery spinner while the South African all-rounder joined the Royals.
This will be Jonny Bairstow's first time playing in SA20. The batter has plied his trade around the world and has been a T20 journeyman, playing in various leagues. His most recent outing in franchise cricket was in May, when he represented the Punjab Kings in the Indian Premier League (IPL). Bairstow scored 298 runs across 11 matches, including a scintillating century in a record-breaking chase against Kolkata Knight Riders.
Bairstow's form has taken a dip in recent times. The Yorkshire man had a dismal Men's T20 World Cup 2024 outing, scoring 110 runs in eight matches, with a high score of 48*. He was subsequently dropped from the Test team that played against West Indies.
The Joburg Super Kings took to their official X account and posted the following image to announce the English player's signing:
Joburg Super Kings make 13 retentions ahead of SA20 2025
After failing to make it past the Qualifier stages yet again, the Joburg Super Kings have decided to let go of a few names and have retained 13 players.
Skipper Faf du Plessis was their first retention, followed by England all-rounder Moeen Ali. Coming to their local players, they have retained Gerald Coetzee, Aaron Phangiso, Nandre Burger, Lizaad Williams. and Imran Tahir. Further, they have strengthened their spin department as they have retained Sri Lanka's Maheesh Theekshana as well.
With the auction coming up soon, the Joburg Super Kings will be looking to strengthen their team and ensure they go all the way to clinch their maiden title.