The cricketing spotlight is firmly on the UAE as the DP World International League T20 Season 4 begins today with a high-voltage clash between defending champions Dubai Capitals and the Desert Vipers at the Dubai International Stadium, a replay of last season’s gripping final.

The league returns with star-packed squads, historic associate nations inclusions, and a dazzling opening ceremony headlined by Pakistani singer Ali Zafar. The first ball is scheduled for 6.45pm.

Star power, new rules, and a historic auction

All six teams have finalised their squads following October’s inaugural ILT20 Player Auction, forming a competitive mix of global cricket icons, UAE standouts, and Associate Member players, including debutants from Kuwait and Saudi Arabia.

Squad rules required teams to field:

• At least 11 full-member international players,
• 4 UAE players,
• 1 player each from Kuwait and Saudi Arabia, and
• 2 additional associate players.

Franchises also made direct and wildcard signings ahead of the season.

Abu Dhabi Knight Riders set for a strong charge

Bolstered by a rejuvenated roster, Abu Dhabi Knight Riders enter Season 4 under the leadership of newly appointed captain Jason Holder, with Dwayne Bravo taking charge as head coach. Their squad includes power hitters Alex Hales, Andre Russell, Phil Salt, and Liam Livingstone, along with UAE talents Ajay Kumar and Alishan Sharafu. Associate players from Saudi Arabia and Kuwait further strengthen their bench.

A galaxy of global cricket superstars

Fans across the UAE will see some of the sport’s biggest names in action, including:

• Abu Dhabi Knight Riders: Sunil Narine, Andre Russell, Alex Hales, Phil Salt
• Dubai Capitals: Rovman Powell, Mustafizur Rahman, Jimmy Neesham
• Desert Vipers: Sam Curran, Lockie Ferguson, Naseem Shah, Shimron Hetmyer
• Gulf Giants: Moeen Ali, Pathum Nissanka, Rahmanullah Gurbaz
• MI Emirates: Kieron Pollard, Nicholas Pooran, Jonny Bairstow, Fazalhaq Farooqi
• Sharjah Warriorz: Tim David, Dinesh Karthik, Adil Rashid, Sikandar Raza

This season also features a mix of rising UAE stars such as Vriitya Aravind, Muhammad Waseem, and Asif Khan, reflecting the league’s commitment to elevating local talent.

Opening ceremony promises a spectacle

Before the ball is bowled, fans will experience an entertainment-packed ceremony featuring Ali Zafar. Hospitality packages start at Dh325, while the newly launched Sixes Lounge experience, offering unlimited food and beverages, is available for Dh395.

Full squads for all teams have been shared by the organisers, capturing the breadth of talent participating this season.

Where to watch and follow

Tickets are available at tickets.ilt20.ae and Virgin Megastore.
Fans can follow live updates via @ILT20Official across all major social platforms.