DP World ILT20 Development Tournament Returns — Battle for UAE Cricket’s Future Starts August 24
Dubai, UAE – The race to unearth UAE’s next cricket stars begins this month as the third edition of the DP World ILT20 Development Tournament gets underway on Sunday, 24 August at ICC Academy Oval 1, Dubai.
Six Teams, One Trophy
Defending champions Gulf Giants Development will be joined by Abu Dhabi Knight Riders Development, Desert Vipers Development, Dubai Capitals Development, MI Emirates Development, and Sharjah Warriorz Development in an 18-match, round-robin showdown. All squads, made up entirely of UAE players, will be finalised in a Player Selection Draft on 18 August at Dubai International Stadium.
Golden Chance for Rising Stars
With UAE’s national team on Asia Cup duty, selectors will have their eyes firmly on the next generation. “This is the biggest opportunity yet for fresh talent,” said Tournament Director Andrew Russell. “Last year’s finds, like Farhan Ahmed and Saghir Khan, went from the development stage straight into starring roles at the main ILT20.”
From Academy Lights to Global Stage
Each ILT20 franchise must field at least four UAE players in Season 4, which launches 2 December with a blockbuster UAE National Day opener. A player auction after the Asia Cup will offer franchises the chance to recruit 78 more names.
Key Dates
- 24 August – Tournament begins
- 2 September – Semi-finals
- 3 September – Final
- 2 Dec 2025 – 4 Jan 2026 – DP World ILT20 Season 4
Under the floodlights of Dubai, the next wave of UAE cricket talent will fight for a shot at the big stage — and a chance to write their names into the country’s cricketing history.