International League T20 (ILT20): UAE Premier Franchise Tournament
The International League T20 (ILT20), currently known as DP World ILT20 for sponsorship reasons, is a professional Twenty20 cricket league based in the United Arab Emirates, organized by the Emirates Cricket Board. It features city-based franchise teams, international stars, and a format combining round-robin matches with playoffs.
History & Evolution[edit | edit source]
| Year | Key Event |
|---|---|
| 2022 | ILT20 was formally announced as a new UAE T20 league. |
| Jan 2023 | The inaugural season was held (delayed from the initial plan). |
| 2024 | Second season: MI Emirates won the title. |
| 2025 | Third season: Dubai Capitals emerged as champions. |
| 2026 | Fourth season scheduled for Jan–Feb 2026. |
In 2023, ILT20 became the first Associate-run franchise league to be granted List A status, meaning its statistics are now included in official cricket records.
Structure & Format[edit | edit source]
- Teams: 6 franchises — Abu Dhabi Knight Riders, Desert Vipers, Dubai Capitals, Gulf Giants, MI Emirates, Sharjah Warriors.
- Tournament Format: Double round-robin (each team plays others twice), followed by playoffs.
- Player Composition: Teams can field up to nine overseas players in the playing XI — a unique feature among global T20 leagues.
- Local Player Inclusion: Each team must include at least two UAE players and at least one player from an Associate Member nation.
Recent Seasons Highlights[edit | edit source]
- 2024 Champion: MI Emirates won their first ILT20 title.
- 2025 Champion: Dubai Capitals clinched the title by beating Desert Vipers in the final.
- Record Performers: • Most Runs (all seasons combined): James Vince • Most Wickets: Chris Jordan
Why ILT20 Matters[edit | edit source]
- Global Franchise Spotlight in UAE: ILT20 positions the UAE as a serious cricket hub, attracting big-name players and investment.
- Platform for Associate Players: With its relaxed overseas quota, Associate nation cricketers gain exposure in a high-profile league.
- Cricket Development in UAE: Inclusion rules ensure opportunities for UAE’s homegrown players.
- Official Recognition: With List A status, ILT20 performances now count in official cricket statistics.
ILT20 Schedule & Fixtures[edit | edit source]
- The 2025 season ran from January 11 to February 9, featuring 34 matches.
- The 2026 edition is scheduled for January 10 to February 11, 2026.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)[edit | edit source]
Q1. What does ILT20 stand for?
It stands for International League Twenty20.
Q2. Who organizes ILT20?
It is administered by the Emirates Cricket Board (ECB).
Q3. How many teams play in ILT20?
Six franchise teams participate in the league.
Q4. What’s unique about ILT20’s overseas player rules?
Teams can field up to nine overseas players, unlike most other T20 leagues that restrict this number.
Q5. Do performances in ILT20 count in official records?
Yes. Since 2023, ILT20 matches have been granted List A status.
Q6. Who won the 2025 ILT20?
Dubai Capitals won the 2025 championship.
Conclusion[edit | edit source]
The ILT20 is fast establishing itself as one of the most exciting franchise leagues in world cricket. With its unique player composition rules, official recognition, and ability to attract international stars, the tournament has given the UAE a strong foothold in global cricket. As the league grows, it promises to become a permanent fixture in the cricketing calendar, offering fans thrilling contests and Associate players a stage to shine.