Where to Watch the Proteas in Gauteng: Live Viewing Spots, Sports Bars & Fan Zones
Passionate cricket followers across Gauteng are gearing up for the latest Proteas vs Australia showdown. Whether you prefer the buzz of a packed bar, communal fan zones or spacious venues with big screens, here’s your go‑to guide for grabbing a spot to cheer our Proteas in style.
Watch at Home via Broadcaster
For viewers watching from home, SuperSport offers the official broadcast via DStv and Showmax. Known for its high‑definition cricket coverage and live commentary, SuperSport ensures seamless streaming of every ball, from the first delivery to the final wicket.
Proteas vs Australia Live Viewing Spots & Fan Zones
Fan Parks & Outdoor Zones
- Melrose Arch Fan Park – While traditionally built around rugby, it often hosts cricket screenings on big screens in The Piazza and The Square. Join the crowd in green and gold and enjoy live streaming with food stalls and public viewing.
Market‑style Viewing
- Braamfontein Playground Market – Known for live sports streams, local food vendors and brilliant atmosphere. Arrive early for free entry and settle in for open‑air cricket excitement.
Top Sports Bars in Johannesburg & Pretoria
Rosebank & Sandton Hub
- Benchwarmers Sports Bar (Rosebank) – A perennial local favourite on Bolton Road, Benchwarmers features multiple screens showing live sport, robust food and beer offerings, and passionate fans spilling onto the street corner. Ideal for cricket fans wanting a lively vibe.
- 011 Gin‑Eatery (Oxford Parks, Rosebank) – Famous for its large screen, group seating, drink specials and reservations via WhatsApp, this venue is one of the most popular in the area for screening major sports events.
Illovo & Melville Picks
- Hogshead, Illovo – Located in a strip mall, Hogshead offers screens inside and outside, can broadcast multiple live matches at once—perfect if you and your crew want to follow different games simultaneously.
- Xai Xai (Melville) – A longstanding Melville bar known for its lively atmosphere, local beers and regular sports screenings. It may not be polished, but its passionate fanbase brings energy to every match.
Northern Suburbs
- Molly Malone’s (Fourways) – An Irish pub geared for match days, with deck seating, big screens and hearty menu. Expect a packed house and festive atmosphere when the Proteas are in action.
- Pirates Club (Greenside) – A sports club-style venue with plenty of screens and cheap beer. Booking isn’t possible for big games, so arrive early to claim your seat before the crowd arrives.
Craighall and Craighall Park
- Founders at Giles (Craighall Park) – A quieter pub with several TV screens and a rear projector. Suitable for those seeking a more relaxed match‑day experience but still want visibility of the action.
Stadium Neighbourhood Pubs
Close to Ellis Park Stadium (Emirates Airline Park) and Wanderers Stadium (The Bullring), there are local watering holes where fans often gather before and after live matches at the stadiums:
- The Troyeville Hotel, just minutes from Ellis Park, is popular with dedicated sports fans thanks to its historic reputation and knowledgeable clientele.
Other local neighbourhood bars in stadium precincts may screen the cricket and offer a communal vibe during big games.
Planning Your Match‑Day Meetup
- Bookings are highly recommended at Benchwarmers, 011 Gin‑Eatery, Molly Malone’s and Founders at Giles—especially if you’re coming with a group.
- Come early at Pirates Club and Playground Market to secure a good seat.
- Dress in Proteas colours, bring a scarf or hat—local fans wear green and gold proudly.
Your Game‑Day Choices at a Glance
| Spot | Area | Atmosphere | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Benchwarmers | Rosebank | Lively, energetic | Fans wanting big‑screen excitement |
| 011 Gin‑Eatery | Rosebank | Group‑friendly | Reserved seating, drink specials |
| Hogshead | Illovo | Multi‑screen chaos | Groups watching multiple matches |
| Xai Xai | Melville | Casual, local crowd | Party vibes and passionate fans |
| Molly Malone’s | Fourways | Irish pub charm | Southern suburbs crowd |
| Pirates Club | Greenside | Sports club energy | Affordable beers and screens |
| Founders at Giles | Craighall Park | Relaxed, pub‑style | Quieter venue with screening |
| Playground Market | Braamfontein | Outdoor, vibrant | Market food and fan zone feel |
Embrace the Cricket Spirit
Whether it’s the roar inside a bustling bar or the collective cheers in an outdoor fan park, Gauteng offers vibrant venues to catch every boundary, wicket and roar-worthy moment of the Proteas vs Australia match. Be sure to check match times (typically afternoon for Test or ODI games) and reserve your spot early for the best viewing experience.
Related article: Everything You Need to Know About the Proteas vs Australia Rivalry
