Bringing 34 thrilling matches to Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Sharjah
PARTNER CONTENT: The UAE is once again ready to host one of the most anticipated cricketing events of the year as the DP World International League T20 (ILT20) Season 4 takes shape.
Bringing together world-class talent alongside homegrown heroes from 2024 December, the league promises a season of thrilling cricket and a celebration of the sport across the UAE’s iconic venues in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Sharjah.
The excitement began last October with a landmark moment in the league’s journey: the first-ever Player Auction, held at the luxurious Four Seasons Hotel, Jumeirah Beach, Dubai.
Here, all six franchises – Abu Dhabi Knight Riders, Desert Vipers, Dubai Capitals, Gulf Giants, MI Emirates, and Sharjah Warriors – assembled to complete their squads ahead of the 34-match season, following their retention picks announced in July.
Each franchise had a minimum spending target of USD 1.5 million and a maximum of USD 2 million, with an additional USD 250,000 allowed for up to two Wildcard signings outside the auction.
Squads feature 19-21 players, balancing international stars and local talent: at least 11 from Full Member nations, four from the UAE, one each from Kuwait and Saudi Arabia, and two from other ICC Associate nations.
Adding a local dimension, franchises could exercise a Right-to-Match option for a UAE player from their development squad or previous season roster.
Player selection was strategic and thrilling. Names were drawn from categories based on nationality, skill, and experience, with marquee and capped players introduced first.
The auctioneer set the base price, ranging from USD 10,000 to 80,000, and invited bids until each player found a home.
Accelerated Rounds allowed franchises to revisit players who went unsigned, ensuring every squad was perfectly balanced for the season ahead. The auction was streamed live on ZEE 5 and the DP World ILT20 YouTube channel, bringing fans worldwide into the action.
With the auction concluded and squads finalised, all eyes now turn to the upcoming tournament, which kicks off on Tuesday, 2 December 2025, coinciding with UAE National Day and Eid-Al-Etihad.
Over the next month, the six franchises will compete in 34 fast-paced matches across three iconic venues: Dubai International Stadium, Sheikh Zayed Cricket Stadium in Abu Dhabi, and Sharjah Cricket Stadium.
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Each stadium brings its own atmosphere, from the grandeur of Dubai’s modern arena to the historic charm of Sharjah and the vibrant energy of Abu Dhabi – creating a season-long showcase of cricket across the Emirates.
The tournament promises thrills at every turn: last-over finishes, spectacular catches, and masterful innings that can change the course of a match in seconds.
Beyond the field, the league embodies innovation, inclusivity, and community spirit, promoting local talent while giving fans world-class access to international stars.
This is a celebration of cricket and culture, blending high-level sport with the UAE’s vibrant sporting atmosphere.
The season builds toward the grand finale on Sunday, 4 January 2026, where the champions will be crowned and fans will celebrate a month of world-class cricket, talent, and excitement across the Emirates.
From Dubai to Abu Dhabi and Sharjah, the DP World ILT20 Season 4 promises to be a tournament to remember, where international stars and local heroes collide in a spectacle of skill, strategy, and sheer sporting passion.
2 December to 4 January, Dubai, Sharjah and Abu Dhabi. Get your tickets here at Virgin Megastore. For further information, visit ILT 20.
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