The Economic Impact of Cricket in South Africa: Insights from CSA

Cricket South Africa (CSA) said the sport of cricket plays a huge role in contributing to the South African GDP, tourism, and economy.

Speaking to the Business Report, CSA said that India’s tour to South Africa in the 2024/2025 season created a big economic boost.

CSA believes that the Proteas' recent victory in the ICC World Test Championship will further elevate the sport in the country. The Federated Hospitality Association of Southern Africa (FEDHASA) has also welcomed the role of cricket in growing hospitality and tourism.

Edward Khoza, Executive, Domestic Cricket (CSA), said that cricket plays a vital part in our economy, especially in transport, playing equipment, maintenance of infrastructure, and keeping individuals employed (especially coaches who operate one-on-one coaching and private academy landscapes).

“With the results that the Proteas Test Team has attained, there will be an enhanced positiveness towards the game, which will benefit all these markets.”

Wanele Mngomezulu, Chief Marketing Officer (CSA), said that cricket plays a huge contribution in drawing international fans to South Africa, contributing to sports tourism.

“According to BDO, the direct, indirect, and induced economic impact was approximately R218 million for the recent SA vs India inbound tour. The total contribution to the national government via various taxes amounted to R14 million.”

Mngomezulu added that the total number of full-time equivalent employment created/sustained was approximately 405.

“Skills level breakdown (Skilled – 61; Semi-skilled – 137; Unskilled / low – 67; and Informal – 140). The total direct expenditure generated by the event amounted to R75 million. In total, i.e., the direct, indirect, and induced economic impact of the event for South Africa was approximately R218 million.”

Enoch Nkwe, Director: National Teams and High Performance (CSA), said that every tournament that a South African team wins and becomes world champions has a huge positive impact on South Africa.

“The team's achievements have helped restore belief and confidence in the country and have also provided a foundation for the 2027 Cricket World Cup. We hope this success will give us an opportunity to attract more Test matches in the next FTP cycle (2027–2031).”

Khoza added that the impact of the win was felt immediately by those who were in London to support the team and those who received the team at OR Tambo upon their return.

“Many school-going kids participating at various levels of our pathway shared how the win inspires their desire and commitment to the game. The national players are now regarded as heroes and role models for the game – they have inspired people who follow cricket to take up bat and ball in a positive way with the long-term ambitions of following in their heroes' footsteps.”

Rosemary Anderson, Fedhasa National Chairperson, said that cricket is immensely important to tourism.

“Events like the recent South Africa vs India tour bring in large numbers of international visitors who spend on accommodation, dining, transport, and experiences - directly benefitting thousands of businesses across the tourism value chain. The figures from the BDO are compelling numbers that show how cricket can be a job creator and a revenue booster.

But the impact goes even further. International visitors often come for the cricket and stay for South Africa. Our country has one of the highest tourism return rates globally. Visitors fall in love with our landscapes, culture, and hospitality. It’s not uncommon for someone who first visits to support their team to return later with family or friends for a broader leisure holiday. ”

Anderson added that more international cricket fixtures are directly linked to more inbound travel.

“Hotels fill up, restaurants are booked, transport companies benefit, and tour operators see increased activity. But just as importantly, the media coverage of these events gives South Africa positive exposure on a global scale - showcasing our stadiums, cities, and natural beauty to millions of viewers. This kind of destination marketing, coupled with actual visitor arrivals, creates both short-term and long-term returns. Globally, the value of sports tourism is immense, contributing over 10% of global tourism spending according to UNWTO estimates.

Anderson said that their recent win boosts national pride and positions South Africa as a cricket powerhouse - encouraging more international tours and tests here.

“Hosting the 2027 World Cup is even more significant. It offers us a golden opportunity to package and promote our country to a global audience, drive up arrivals, and attract investment in tourism infrastructure.”

Following the conclusion of the third season of the Betway SA20 cricket competition in South Africa in February, League Commissioner Graeme Smith said that Season 3 of the Betway SA20 has been an absolute game-changer.

“This is the third year running that we have seen unprecedented growth across broadcast, attendance, and digital platforms; we have really made a mark as one of the leading sport and entertainment brands in the country. Globally, our numbers continue to increase and support our vision of being the biggest T20 cricket league outside of India.”

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