Dubai [UAE]: The eagerly anticipated third season of the DP World International League T20 (ILT20) kicks off on Saturday, January 11, at the Dubai International Stadium. Defending champions MI Emirates will face the Dubai Capitals in the opening match of the month-long tournament, which features a total of 34 matches and concludes on February 9.
Squad Updates and Key Changes
Teams have finalized their rosters with notable signings and replacements in preparation for the new season. Injuries and unavailability of players have led to late adjustments across the six participating squads.
Notable Additions:
- Abu Dhabi Knight Riders: England opener Phil Salt joins as a wildcard, while Pakistan spinner Sufiyan Muqeem replaces Hassan Khan.
- MI Emirates: Afghanistan spinner Allah Mohammad Ghazanfar has been added.
- Desert Vipers: Dan Lawrence enters as a wildcard, and Fakhar Zaman and Sam Curran bolster the squad.
- Dubai Capitals: Shai Hope, Gulbadin Naib, and Najibullah Zadran headline their new signings.
- Gulf Giants: Tim David and Tom Curran join the squad, along with Ollie Robinson as a wicketkeeper-batter.
- Sharjah Warriorz: Tim Southee takes over as captain, supported by new signings such as Adil Rashid, Jason Roy, and Matthew Wade.
Complete Team Rosters
Abu Dhabi Knight Riders
New Signings: Phil Salt (Wildcard), Sufiyan Muqeem, Jason Holder, Kyle Mayers
Retentions: Sunil Narine, Andre Russell, David Willey
Desert Vipers
New Signings: Sam Curran, Fakhar Zaman, Lockie Ferguson
Retentions: Alex Hales, Wanindu Hasaranga
Dubai Capitals
New Signings: Shai Hope, Najibullah Zadran, Gulbadin Naib
Retentions: Rovman Powell, Sikandar Raza
Gulf Giants
New Signings: Tim David, Tom Curran, Ibrahim Zadran
Retentions: Shimron Hetmyer, Chris Jordan
MI Emirates
New Signings: Allah Mohammad Ghazanfar, Tom Banton, Romario Shepherd
Retentions: Nicholas Pooran, Kieron Pollard
Sharjah Warriorz
New Signings: Tim Southee (Captain), Jason Roy, Matthew Wade
Retentions: Kusal Mendis, Tom Kohler-Cadmore
Tournament Overview
The ILT20 Season 3 promises a month of high-octane cricket with star players from around the globe. The league continues to provide a platform for emerging talent while showcasing seasoned international players.
Stay tuned as the action unfolds in the UAE, with fans eagerly awaiting thrilling performances and unforgettable moments.