ILT20 Tournament Ambassador Shoaib Akhtar visits DP World office in Dubai

Dubai, Nawaz Gohar

The DP World ILT20 offers a unique opportunity to be a part of the UAE’s first home-grown cricket tournament, and once again help turn Dubai into the sports capital of the region.

DP World is proud to be the Title Partner of the region’s premier cricket tournament.

To celebrate the partnership between DP World and the DP World ILT20, Shoaib Akhtar, commentator at the league and tournament ambassador,

made an appearance at the DP World office in Dubai and spoke about his cricketing journey, the DP World ILT20 and the incredible partnership which continues to gain strength with every passing season.

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ILT20 is changing the perception of cricket in the region, Russell

Dubai ; Nawaz Gohar

Andrew Russell, the ILT20 Development Tournament Director, discussed the significant developmental impact of the DP World ILT20, aimed at nurturing young cricketing talent and raising the profile of the sport across the UAE.

From offering children the rare opportunity to play soft ball cricket at iconic stadiums in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Sharjah to the growth of development programs, Russell highlighted the success and future potential of cricket in the region.

Among the various initiatives deployed by the DP World ILT20 Season 3 to create a comprehensive and engaging experience for all stakeholders is a daily pre-match activity that provides a rare opportunity for children to play soft ball cricket in the iconic cricket stadiums in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Sharjah.

Speaking on the initiative, Andrew Russell – ILT20 Development Tournament Director said, “Last year, around 2,500 kids played cricket in the stadiums during Season 2, getting the chance to share the same grounds as some of the best players in the world.

This year, we’re building on that by continuing with the mini-games format. The difference now is that we have a long waiting list of kids eager to participate. Many of them now have their own favorite teams to support, which is fantastic to see, as it shows growing awareness of the tournament.”

Following the introduction of the ILT20 in 2023, a series of developmental initiatives have come to fruition, such as the ILT20 Development Tournament and the DP World ILT20 Schools Cup, while several franchises have undertaken measures of their own and partnered with various schools and academies.

Highlighting the value of these programs, Russell added, “Over the last two years, we’ve seen significant results from our development programs, with 60-70% of our current national team emerging from this pathway.

These players have gained experience through school tournaments, development cups, and other relevant competitions, showcasing the program’s success in fostering talent.”

Russell further added that the ILT20 is changing the perception of cricket and related opportunities in the region, “This tournament offers a significant platform for shaping the mindset of young players. In the past, we’ve seen juniors leave our shores at 15 or 16, feeling that opportunities to play at the international level were limited.

However, over the past few years, there’s been a noticeable shift, with more players committing to domestic cricket and staying here. They now see a clear pathway and an opportunity to reach the big stage, which tournaments like this provide.”

On the demographic in the UAE being ideal for cricket, he said, “A big benefit is the South Asian population, which already provides a huge base of cricketers.

While cricket is more technical and requires a lot of groundwork in terms of matches and facilities, the love for the sport doesn’t need to be manufactured here because it’s already present. We get to build on a strong foundation, and I think this is very much due to the population demographics.”

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Pakistan’s Fakhar Zaman is getting ready for the ILT20

Dubai, By Nawaz Gohar

Pakistan top-order powerhouse Fakhar Zaman is getting ready for the ILT20 with the Desert Vipers, but he believes he still has plenty to offer Pakistan.

The 34 year-old has not played for his country since the ICC T20 World Cup in June of 2024, but he told the Vipers Voices podcast he has not turned the page on his international career.

“Hundred percent I will play for Pakistan (again),” he said. “Actually, many people do not know about that, but after the T20 World Cup I got sick and because of the medical condition I was not fit, so I was not a part of the team.

“But now I recovered a hundred percent, and you will see me in the next international series which Pakistan plays.”
The next major white-ball tournament for Pakistan is the ICC Champions Trophy 2025,

hosted by Pakistan, and it is an event that, in 2017, saw Fakhar Zaman announce himself on the world stage, with a match-winning hundred against India in the final at The Oval in London.

“My plan has been around the Champions Trophy (in 2025),” he said. “I did not play in the Australia tour or in the South Africa tour, so my whole plan was just to play in the Champions Trophy to make myself available and to be fully fit for the tournament.

Incumbent Pakistan opener Saim Ayub was recently injured during Pakistan’s tour to South Africa potentially opening up a spot for Fakhar, but the Pakistani batter said he expected to stay with the Desert Vipers for the whole tournament while wishing for Saim’s speedy recovery.

Fakhar was a top target for Desert Vipers Director of Cricket Tom Moody for this year’s tournament in the UAE, with the Australia ICC Cricket World Cup winner calling the left-hander “a true match-winner.”

From Fakhar’s perspective, he said the opportunity to link up with the Desert Vipers was not something that required a great deal of thought before he signed on.

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ILT20 is incredibly fierce and highly competitive: David Warner

Dubai, Nawaz Gohar

Australian cricketing icon David Warner is gearing up for his second season with the Dubai Capitals in the DP World International League T20.

While the team achieved a runner-up finish in the tournament’s previous edition, Warner is determined to play a greater role in building on that success in 2025 – Season 3.

Reflecting on the tournament’s unique structure, he highlighted its impact on raising the level of competition and providing invaluable opportunities for local talent. As the new season approaches, Warner remains committed to sharing his extensive experience and supporting the growth of UAE cricket.

On his previous season with the Dubai Capitals, that also marked his debut at the DP World ILT20, the opening batter said, “I enjoyed the competition.

It was challenging from an opening batter’s perspective and good for the bowlers. I think the way we fought and came back strongly towards the end of the tournament was fantastic.”

On the unique squad composition at the DP World ILT20 that mandates each team can feature as many as nine international players besides a minimum of two players from the United Arab Emirates,

the hard-hitting southpaw remarked, “It’s rare to have the opportunity where such great talent from around the world mixes with local talent.

I think it’s a great experience for the local players, but more importantly, it strengthens the competition, which is incredibly fierce. It’s highly competitive, and everyone talks about it—in Australia and other countries as well. They’re all discussing this tournament and always want to be part of it.”

Warner also went to appreciate cricketers from the UAE; he lauded Haider Ali’s role in the Dubai Capitals’ campaign last year. “I think Haider Ali stood out for us.

He didn’t get the opportunity to play many games, but when he did, he truly seized the moment and showcased his talent. I was thoroughly happy and excited for him. He was a big, integral part of our team.”

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Cambridge High School Abu Dhabi clinch ILT20 Schools Cup 2024 in thrilling final

Dubai, Sports Link

Cambridge High School Abu Dhabi emerged victorious in the DP World ILT20 Schools Cup 2024, claiming the championship with a thrilling six-run win over Gems Modern Academy, Dubai.

The closely contested final, held on Saturday at the ICC Academy, marked a fitting highlight for day one of the DP World ILT20 Junior Cricket Festival.

The event captivated attendees with its vibrant atmosphere, offering interactive games, food stalls, and engaging activities for families and fans, creating a memorable celebration of cricket.

Put in first, Cambridge High School Abu Dhabi posted 157/2 in 20 overs. Openers Prithvi Madhu and Yayin Kiran set the tone, scoring half centuries of 65 and 58 runs respectively. In the death overs, Ishaan Sujay Rai contributed a vital knock of 15 runs in just five balls.

In response, Gems Modern Academy, Dubai fell short of the target to finish at 151/8 in 20 overs. Aryan Thapar top scored with 47 runs, while Sanjith Ram and Jaidev Gattani also made contributions of 26 and 24 runs respectively. Yayin Kiran Rai was lethal with the ball as well, picking up two wickets for 24 runs. Notably, the innings would see as many as four run outs.

Meanwhile, the DP World ILT20 Junior Cricket Festival saw an excellent turnout, with families and fans enjoying both the cricket match and festive activities at the ICC Academy.

The event was a great success, blending exciting cricket with games, food stalls, and fun for all. After Saturday’s boys cricket festival, Sunday hosted the girls’ cricket festival, in another day of community, cricket and celebration.

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Shoaib and Sehwag praise DP World ILT20’s impact on cricket in the region

Dubai, Sports Link

As the DP World ILT20 gears up for its third edition, scheduled to commence from January 11th, 2025, cricketing icons Shoaib Akhtar and Virender Sehwag praised the league for its significant role in developing talent from the region and providing invaluable experience to players. The two legends spoke at the Season 3 launch event held last weekend on a yacht at Dubai Marina.

The explosive Indian batter and legend of Indian cricket, Virender Sehwag, reflected on the league’s impact over the past two seasons, stating, “When we look back at the past two seasons of the DP World ILT20, we can see that many players, whether they are from the UAE or other countries like Afghanistan, have significantly improved their performances in ICC tournaments.”

He further emphasised the unique learning opportunities the league offers to UAE players, “For the UAE team, when players play alongside nine international stars, they get the chance to learn from these experienced players. Not only during matches but also in how the international players practice, prepare, and handle pressure situations. They won’t find this kind of exposure anywhere else.”

The Rawalpindi Express, Shoaib Akhtar who has been associated with the competition from season 2, echoed his peer’s sentiments by discussing the league’s broader implications: “As I’ve always said, it’s a breeding ground of talent for GCC countries, not just the United Arab Emirates. It is only going to help cricket, and it is a great initiative. I am blessed to be part of it and help the game grow.”

He also noted what sets the ILT20 apart from other international leagues. “The effort being put in by DP World, the organisers, the broadcasters, and the Emirates Cricket Board is tremendous. They have made it easy to collaborate with them,” he opined.

Season 3 of the DP World International League T20 will begin from Saturday, 11 January 2025. The 34-match tournament will run for a month with the final to be played on Sunday, 9 February 2025.

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Gulf Giants Crowned ILT20 Development Tournament 2024

Dubai, Sports Link

Gulf Giants Development was crowned champions of the DP World ILT20 Development Tournament 2024, following a six-wicket victory against the ILT20 Pearls in the final.

The Giants’ run chase was buoyed by Shival Bawa’s dazzling half-century and vital contributions from Vriitya Arvind, Hameed Khan and Muhammad Saghir Khan.

Yassir Kaleem’s half century helped the Pearls post 185/5 earlier in the day. Rohan Mustafa also registered a comprehensive performance with bat and ball for the Pearls, that went in vain.

The final at the ICC Academy Oval 1 unfolded in a festive atmosphere, with cricket lovers and the friends and families of the players cheering passionately from the stands. Notably, the competition offered UAE players a chance to earn one of 12 coveted berths in the six DP World ILT20 Season 3 squads, with the all-important draft set for October 23.

The Giants’ run chase faltered to 20/2 with Rohan Mustafa picking up the wickets of Muhammad Irfan and Samal Udawantha. Giants’ captain, Vriitya Arvind was joined by Shival Bawa as the pair notched an essential partnership of 80 runs.

Hameed Khan also contributed a swift knock of 27 runs in 13 balls before he was castled by Rohan Mustafa in the 16th over. Shival Bawa was then aided by Muhammad Saghir Khan’s high-impact innings of 33 runs in 11 balls, as the Giants chased down the target in 19 overs.

With the DP World ILT20 Development Tournament 2024 completing a second edition, the developmental tournament continued to highlight some of the finest talent from around the region.

Raees Ahmed finished as the top scorer of the tournament, amassing 307 runs for the ILT20 Thunderbolts while Uzair Khan emerged as the leading wicket taker with 16 scalps for the Pearls.

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Flower keeping keen on eye on ILT20 Development Tournament

Dubai, Sports Link

Scouting the correct talent and at a suitable age is one of the most important aspects of a plan when the aim is to make progress in sports. And for those scouted, game time is important,

and there is nothing better than high level cricket tournaments such as the DP World ILT20 for that, according to the Zimbabwean legend Andy Flower.

The head coach of the Gulf Giants, the former legendary wicketkeeper-batter, believes that the while the DP World ILT20 can help transform UAE cricket, the DP World ILT20 Development Tournament 2024 is as important, while on the same journey.

Flower is keeping a keen on eye on the action at the DP World ILT20 Development Tournament which is currently being played at the ICC Academy Oval 1.

The tournament provides the competing players an opportunity of sealing one of the 12 remaining berths in the six DP World ILT20 Season 3 squads (two squad spots up for grabs in each team).

Formerly the coach of the England cricket team, Flower, who has been watching the tournament from one of the best seats in the house, has been mighty impressed by the young UAE players such as Aayan Khan, Zuhaib Zubair,

Junaid Siddique, Muhammad Wasim to name a few. On a scouting trip for the Gulf Giants, who created history by becoming the inaugural champions of the ILT20, the former Zimbabwe captain said,

“We are aiming to bring home the trophy again after the sensational first season for the Gulf Giants. Working with the Adanis was a fantastic experience for us and yes, we would like to do them proud.

So, getting to the playoffs is the first step towards real success and strengthening our squad with the UAE players is just a small step in the same direction.”

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Zim Afro T10 season 3 scheduled from 15 to 30 Sep 2025

Harare, Sports Link

Following the tremendous success of the second edition of the Zim Afro T10, T Ten Global has officially announced the window for an exciting third season.

The tournament will take place in the window between 15 September and 30 September in 2025, continuing its momentum as one of the most exciting events on the cricketing calendar.

The second season this year highlighted Zimbabwe’s growing stature as a prominent cricketing hub in the African continent. The festival-like atmosphere in Harare witnessed the finest cricketers comes together to lit up the league.

The tournament, which saw the Jo’Burg Bangla Tigers, led by Sikandar Raza, lift the coveted trophy, was a spectacular showcase of thrilling cricket.

At the heart of this success has been the unwavering support of the Zimbabwean Government, led by President of Republic of Zimbabwe His Excellency, Dr Emmerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa.

His presence at the grand finale underscored his deep-rooted passion for cricket and sports in general, while his continued backing has been instrumental in the rapid rise of the Zim Afro T10 on the global cricket calendar.

Nawab Shaji Ul Mulk, Founder and Chairman of T Ten Global Sports, expressed his deep appreciation for the government’s support, stating, “We are immensely grateful to His Excellency President Mnangagwa and his government for their unwavering backing.

The Zim Afro T10 has thrived under their leadership, and we are excited about the future. The President’s encouraging words inspire us to keep elevating the tournament, cementing its place as a cornerstone of Zimbabwean cricket.”

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DP World ILT20 Development Tournament 2024 to begin on 6 October

Dubai, Sports Link

The second edition of the DP World International League T20 Development Tournament will begin at the ICC Academy Oval 1 on Sunday, 6 October. Like last year, six teams will compete in the 18-match tournament that will be played on a single-league basis.

The teams were selected via a draft last week, each of the six sides comprises 15 players and includes UAE’s star national players and DP World ILT20 participants.

The tournament will be another opportunity for UAE’s future stars to showcase their talent and impress the six DP World ILT20 franchises ahead of Season 3 which will be played in January-February 2025.

The six tournament squads were chosen via a Player Selection Draft which was conducted at the Dubai International Stadium last week.

At the end of the tournament, another round of the Player Selection Draft will take place. Each of the six DP World ILT20 franchises will complete their UAE selections (minimum of four per squad) for Season 3 by choosing the remaining players for Season 3, two per team.

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