DP World ILT20 Season 3: UAE Player Selections Announced
Dubai, UAE – The highly anticipated player selection process for UAE players in the DP World International League T20 Season 3 was completed today in Dubai, with top-performing local talents earning coveted spots in franchise squads. The tournament, set to commence on 11 January 2024, promises thrilling cricket action as local and international stars converge.
Key UAE Player Selections
Prominent UAE players were picked based on their stellar performances in the DP World ILT20 Development Tournament 2024.
- Ethan D’Souza, a left-handed batter, will join the Sharjah Warriorz after his impressive 84-run knock for the UAE U19 against Pakistan U19 in the ongoing ACC Men’s U19 Asia Cup 2024.
- Dhruv Parashar, who claimed five wickets in the Development Tournament, and Aryan Lakra, who scored a half-century for Gulf Giants Development, will represent Desert Vipers and MI Emirates, respectively.
- Abu Dhabi Knight Riders secured Shahid Iqbal Bhutta and Ibrar Ahmed, both of whom took six wickets each during the Development Tournament.
- Farhan Khan and Zeeshan Naseer earned spots in the Dubai Capitals, with Naseer emerging as the second-highest wicket-taker (10) in the Development Tournament.
- Gulf Giants bolstered their bowling with Muhammad Saghir Khan and Muhammad Uzair Khan, the tournament’s leading wicket-taker with 16 wickets.
- Seasoned pacer Zahoor Khan will rejoin MI Emirates, bringing his experience along with Lakra, while Khuzaima Bin Tanveer moves to the Desert Vipers squad after a strong showing.
Complete UAE Player Roster for Season 3
- Abu Dhabi Knight Riders: Shahid Iqbal Bhutta, Ibrar Ahmed
- Desert Vipers: Khuzaima Bin Tanveer, Dhruv Parashar
- Dubai Capitals: Farhan Khan, Zeeshan Naseer
- Gulf Giants: Muhammad Saghir Khan, Muhammad Uzair Khan
- MI Emirates: Zahoor Khan, Aryan Lakra
- Sharjah Warriorz: Rohan Mustafa, Ethan D’Souza
Tournament Schedule
The third edition kicks off on Saturday, 11 January, with Dubai Capitals facing MI Emirates at the Dubai International Stadium. A total of 34 matches, including playoffs, will be played across three iconic venues – Dubai International Stadium, Zayed Cricket Stadium in Abu Dhabi, and Sharjah Cricket Stadium.
Key matches include:
- Qualifier 1 on 5 February (Dubai)
- Eliminator on 6 February (Abu Dhabi)
- Final on 9 February (Dubai)
Season Highlights
This year’s UAE player selection reinforces the league’s commitment to nurturing homegrown talent alongside international cricket stars. With rising players like Ethan D’Souza and veterans like Rohan Mustafa, the tournament promises a blend of youth and experience.
Fans can look forward to thrilling matches as teams compete for the coveted title, with defending champions MI Emirates aiming to retain their crown.