Even as a not-so-unbiased Pretoria Capitals fan, I have to admit that my experience at the DP Wanderers Stadium during this year’s edition of the SA20 has been nothing short of one of the most phenomenal and exhilarating sporting experiences of my life. The piercing sound of whistles going “pheeeeeeee” and a sea of yellow that Villarreal FC fans would be jealous of means the ground is absolutely brimming with joy. The thunderous chant of “JOBURG SUPER KINGS” every time a batter strikes a boundary or a bowler takes a wicket must surely place immense pressure on the opposition.

The ground itself is situated in a beautiful area. Lush, tall green trees and a magnificent golf course to the left of the stadium create a fantastic atmosphere. The Wanderers Sports Club across the road, along with the restaurants lining Corlett Drive, provide families and friends with the perfect opportunity to socialise and unwind before settling in to watch enthralling cricket.

As cliché as it may sound, when I think of Cricket South Africa, the first iconic venue that comes to mind is the DP Wanderers Stadium. This ground has played host to countless historic moments over the years – including JSK’s Super Over clash against DSG this season, England collapsing to 2 for 4 in 1999, Shaun Pollock’s final ODI, AB de Villiers smashing the fastest ODI century in just 31 balls, and of course… yes, you knew it was coming (sorry, Australia) – the iconic 438 match, which I still watch every Christmas.

The entertainment at the ground this season has been off the charts. The DJs regularly spin golden oldies from the 80s and 90s right through to tracks released this year – with my personal Throwback Thursday favourite being Doo Bee Doo by Freshlyground. The announcers do a fantastic job with kiss cams, dance cams, animated filter cams and, somewhat shockingly, even a “6–7 cam”. Joburg fans also know how to do fancy dress exceptionally well, with reindeer outfits and watermelon caps among some of the standout looks spotted during this year’s competition. Adding to the atmosphere, the band roams the stadium playing proper tunes on trumpets, oboes and bugles.

On Saturday, 3 July 2026, I also witnessed fans who were adamant about not leaving the stadium despite a brief thunderstorm. As my family and I eventually made our way out, a queue formed near the rain nets where fans took turns bowling tennis balls at one another. Even though the speed gun had been packed away, it didn’t stop a few of us cricket tragics from attempting Morne Morkel or Mitch Johnson-style bouncers at each other.

Many other cricket fans who regularly visit the Wanderers share similar sentiments. One fan said:

“I enjoy being at the Wanderers. It is unlike any other venue I’ve been to. From the moment your Uber drops you off, you’re fetched and taken to the main gate. Hospitality-wise, there are refreshments everywhere, so you don’t stand in long queues. There’s entertainment all around the stadium, and even when you’re standing in queues, you’re not missing out because the people are so nice. There are TVs everywhere, plenty of bathrooms and constant entertainment. After the game, fans even get the opportunity to interact with players during signing sessions, which is great. The trumpet players also keep us entertained!”

Another fan highlighted the excellent value the stadium offers families:

“Firstly, I’d like to say that JSK is number one. We have depth and some of the best bowlers, which is awesome. There’s a hell of a vibe – a magnificent crowd. It’s always fun bringing the family out. You sometimes get to hang out and meet the players, and for the little kids, it’s always great.”

A third fan, who recently relocated from Cape Town to Johannesburg, added:

“I moved to Joburg a few years ago and I always loved Newlands Cricket Ground, but the Wanderers brings a whole new kind of excitement. You feel like you’re in the game – you’re not sitting far away from the pitch. The crowd is much more involved. I really enjoy watching Faf du Plessis; he’s been a champion cricketer for many years. I now fully support JSK. The Wanderers feels like the home of cricket. The 438 game was played here, and I always picture AB de Villiers running off the balcony.”

Personally, I feel the JSK team, along with the Lions staff under Jono Leaf-Wright and Betway, deserve huge congratulations for making the Wanderers feel so warm and welcoming. I wish them all the very best for the remainder of the tournament.