(Image Source: Shihab)
[Saba Sports News] The International League T20 (ILT20) has created a buzz in cricket with its development tournament scheduled to run from September 30th to October 10th in Dubai. This event offers promising talents a chance to shine and potentially secure a coveted spot in one of the ILT20 franchises for the league’s second season.
The ILT20 is committed to discovering and nurturing local cricketing talent, with six franchises already competing to retain 11 of the UAE’s best players. This leaves 13 spots open for aspiring cricketers to showcase their skills on Dubai’s cricket grounds.
In a strategic move to address concerns about player drain, the International Cricket Council (ICC) has capped overseas players at four for new T20 leagues. However, the ILT20, in line with its rulebook, allows each playing XI to have a maximum of nine overseas players, emphasizing its dedication to fostering local cricketing talent.
Emirates Cricket Board general secretary Mubashshir Usmani expressed delight at the opportunity provided to UAE players through the ILT20 Development Tournament, calling it a life-changing opportunity. He believes the tournament will significantly benefit the growth of the game and serve as a platform for participation in the DP World ILT20.
Additionally, it will aid in identifying and selecting players for UAE’s men’s teams in the future.
Six formidable teams will compete in the development tournament, playing five group-stage matches each. Only the top four teams will advance to the semi-finals, adding to the competition’s intensity. The group stage matches will take place at the prestigious ICC Academy Grounds, leading to the grand finale on October 10.