DP World ILT20 Season 3 Set to Kick Off with Thrilling Opener
Dubai, UAE – Cricket fans around the globe are eagerly anticipating the return of the DP World ILT20, with Season 3 promising to deliver an unforgettable month-long spectacle. The tournament will commence on Saturday, January 11, 2025, with an electrifying rematch between reigning champions MI Emirates and Dubai Capitals at the Dubai International Stadium.
Following two remarkable seasons, this year’s DP World ILT20 aims to scale new heights, bringing together some of the world’s finest cricketing talent. Captains from five of the six franchises, along with Gulf Giants bowler Tymal Mills, gathered to share their excitement and expectations ahead of the tournament.
Tournament Ambassador Shoaib Akhtar expressed his enthusiasm, saying:
“This season, the DP World ILT20 is larger than ever before. The hard work and dedication that went into making it a success last year were commendable, and I’m confident this season will be even better.”
Defending Champions MI Emirates captain Nicholas Pooran, who had an outstanding run last season with 354 runs in 10 innings, shared his ambitions for back-to-back titles. He highlighted the importance of a strong team core, particularly praising UAE’s Muhammed Waseem for his contributions.
Dubai Capitals captain and Season 2 MVP Sikandar Raza voiced his determination to go one step further this year:
“Winning the MVP award was nice, but lifting the trophy would be even better. With nine international players in the lineup, it’s one of the toughest leagues in the world.”
Other captains, including Sunil Narine of Abu Dhabi Knight Riders, Lockie Ferguson of Desert Vipers, and Tim Southee of Sharjah Warriorz, expressed confidence in their squads and strategies. Gulf Giants’ Tymal Mills, speaking on behalf of captain James Vince, emphasized the team’s experience and high expectations for another strong campaign.
The tournament will feature an impressive lineup of international stars, including David Warner, Jason Holder, Sam Curran, Alex Hales, and Tim David. Matches will be hosted at three iconic UAE venues: Dubai International Stadium, Zayed Cricket Stadium in Abu Dhabi, and Sharjah Cricket Stadium.
Adding to the excitement, the season will open with a grand ceremony headlined by Bollywood superstars Shahid Kapoor, Pooja Hegde, and Sonam Bajwa. The extravaganza, hosted by Jackky Bhagnani and Ridhima Pathak, will begin at 6:00 PM local time, followed by the first ball of the season bowled at 7:15 PM.
Fans can catch all the action live on the Zee Network and its digital platforms. With 34 matches lined up, including the highly anticipated opener, Season 3 of the DP World ILT20 promises to be a cricketing extravaganza like no other.