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2h ago

Saudi Arabia Partners With ILT20, Opening Path to Host Games and Requiring Saudi Players

The agreement licenses the UAE-run league to operate in the Kingdom, creating a direct route into Season 4 rosters for homegrown talent.

Saudi Arabia has ventured into mainstream cricket for the first time
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Sam Billings, the captain of Dubai Capitals, left, and Lockie Ferguson, of Desert Vipers, pose with ILT20 trophy on an abra at Dubai Creek. Courtesy ILT20
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Overview

  • The Saudi Arabian Cricket Federation has sanctioned and licensed DP World ILT20, approved by the Emirates Cricket Board, as an official men’s and women’s T20 league eligible to stage fixtures in Saudi Arabia in forthcoming seasons.
  • Each of the six ILT20 franchises must sign at least one Saudi player at the Season 4 player auction on Wednesday, establishing a mandated pathway for local cricketers.
  • Season 4 will feature 34 matches from December 2, 2025 to January 4, 2026, with this campaign hosted in Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Sharjah while Saudi venues are planned for future editions.
  • ILT20 chairman Khalid Al Zarooni hailed Saudi commitment to cricket development, and SACF chairman Prince Saud Bin Mishal Al-Saud said the deal supports fan engagement, infrastructure and tourism goals.
  • Organisers said the league will collaborate with SACF on talent identification, development tournaments and cricket infrastructure to deepen the sport’s footprint in the Kingdom.