Even as a not-so-impartial Pretoria Capitals fan, I have to admit that my experience at the DP Wanderers Stadium during this year’s edition of SA20 is nothing short of one of the most phenomenal and exciting sporting experiences of my life. The piercing sound of whistles and a sea of yellow that would be the envy of Villarreal FC fans means the ground is absolutely buzzing with joy. The thunderous chant of “JOBURG SUPER KINGS” every time a batsman hits a boundary or a bowler takes a wicket must surely put immense pressure on the opposition.
The site itself is in beautiful surroundings. Lush, tall green trees and a beautiful golf course to the left of the stadium create a fantastic atmosphere. The Wanderers Sports Club across the road, along with the restaurants along Corlett Drive, provide families and friends with the perfect opportunity to socialize and unwind before settling down to watch some captivating 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 seen countless historic moments over the years, including JSK’s Super Over clash against DSG this season, England slumping 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 on-ground entertainment was off the charts this season. The DJs regularly play golden oldies from the 80s and 90s through to songs released this year – with personal Throwback Thursday favorite Doo Bee Doo from 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 dress up exceptionally well, with reindeer outfits and watermelon caps among some of the standout looks spotted at this year’s competition. To enhance the atmosphere even further, the band wanders through the stadium playing the right melodies on trumpets, oboes and flugelhorns.
On Saturday, July 3, 2026, I also witnessed fans adamantly unwilling to leave the stadium despite a brief thunderstorm. When my family and I finally went outside, a line formed near the rain nets as fans took turns bowling tennis balls to each other. Even though the speed gun was put away, it didn’t stop a few of us cricketers from trying Morne Morkel or Mitch Johnson style bouncers on each other.
Many other cricket fans who regularly visit the Wanderers share similar sentiments. One fan said:
“I love being at the Wanderers. It’s unlike any other venue I’ve been to. From the moment your Uber drops you off, you’re picked up and taken to the main entrance. In terms of hospitality, there are refreshments everywhere so you don’t have to wait in long lines. There’s entertainment all around the stadium, and even if you’re in line you don’t miss anything because the people are so nice. There’s TVs everywhere, plenty of bathrooms and constant entertainment. After the match, fans even get the opportunity to interact with players during signing sessions, which is great. The trumpeters also keep us busy!”
Another fan highlighted the excellent value the stadium offers families:
“First of all I would say JSK is number one. We have depth and some of the best bowlers, which is great. There’s a great atmosphere, a fantastic crowd. It’s always nice to come out with the family. You can hang out sometimes and meet the players, and for the little kids it’s always great.”
A third fan, who recently moved from Cape Town to Johannesburg, added:
“I moved to Joburg a few years ago and I’ve always loved Newlands Cricket Ground, but the Wanderers bring a whole new kind of excitement. You feel like you’re in the game – you’re not far from the field. The crowd is much more involved. I really enjoy watching Faf du Plessis; he’s been a champion cricketer for years. I fully support JSK now. 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 think 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 best for the rest of the tournament.
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