Fans will connect with IPL due to its global appeal: Smith

Updated on: 25 March,2009 11:53 AM IST |
PTI |

South Africa skipper Graeme Smith says global appeal of the Indian Premier League will help cricket fans from his country to connect with the city-based teams

South Africa skipper Graeme Smith says global appeal of the Indian Premier League will help cricket fans from his country to connect with the city-based teams.

"I was in India last year and I saw how the tournament captured the people's imagination. They loved watching players who were traditional rivals play alongside each other," Smith, the South Africa skipper,u00a0said.u00a0

"What also amazed me was when I returned, how many South Africans had watched the tournament on television and the associations they had made with the respective teams. The tournament will also bring along its unique Indian sub-culture which will be a great experience for our fans."u00a0

Smith, a member of the first edition champions Rajasthan Royals, also said that the conduct of the cash-rich Twenty20 tournament in South Africa will prove beneficial for the game in his country.

"It's another opportunity for our country to showcase its beauty. A way for more feet to move through our doors. It will also be a huge financial boost to the provincial unions who keep the game going. I'm sure it will be huge success. It is fantastic for the game in our country, and I'm sure it will be huge success," Smith told the Cape Times.