The International League T20 (ILT20) has announced that its fifth season will commence on Sunday, November 22, 2026, in the UAE, continuing the league’s evolution as the premier T20 cricket spectacle in the Gulf region. The tournament, featuring six teams, will comprise 34 matches and culminate in the final on Sunday, December 20, 2026, at the Dubai International Stadium. This marks the second consecutive season in the December window, following a shift from the earlier January-February schedule.
Season 4 proved highly successful, with improved broadcast viewership, higher spectator attendance, and a thrilling finale where Desert Vipers claimed their maiden title by defeating MI Emirates by 46 runs in front of a packed crowd at Dubai International Stadium on January 4, 2026. ILT20 CEO David White expressed satisfaction with the progress: “We are pleased to confirm the DP World International League T20 Season 5 window… We are delighted with Season 4’s success. The broadcast numbers, spectators’ interest and the participation of the biggest T20 stars made the tournament a remarkable success as the quality of the league grew further.”
White highlighted ongoing strategic partnerships with the Saudi Arabia Cricket Federation and the Kuwait Cricket Association, which will be strengthened through development tournaments in both countries ahead of Season 5. These initiatives aim to expand cricket’s footprint in the region. The league is also preparing for another successful player auction, building on the positive response to Season 4’s auction, with several exciting announcements expected soon.
Season 4 showcased an array of international T20 stars, including standout performers like Sam Curran (Desert Vipers), who earned Player of the Tournament and Best Batter honors; Waqar Salamkheil (MI Emirates) as Best Bowler; and Muhammad Waseem as Best UAE Player. Other notable names who lit up the competition included Andre Russell, Azmatullah Omarzai, Dinesh Karthik, Pathum Nissanka, Fakhar Zaman, Jason Holder, Jason Roy, Kieron Pollard, Moeen Ali, Mohammad Nabi, Naseem Shah, Nicholas Pooran, Phil Salt, Rahmanullah Gurbaz, Romario Shepherd, Shakib Al Hasan, Sikandar Raza, Sunil Narine, Tim David, and Tim Southee.
The ILT20 continues to attract top global talent while providing a platform for emerging UAE and regional players. With the confirmed dates and growing momentum from previous seasons, anticipation is building for another high-quality edition filled with explosive T20 action, big-hitting entertainment, and competitive rivalries across iconic UAE venues.
As the league consolidates its position and expands its influence through partnerships, Season 5 promises to deliver even greater excitement for fans across the Gulf and beyond. The combination of star power, competitive balance, and professional organization positions the ILT20 as a key fixture in the global T20 calendar, further elevating cricket’s popularity in the region.
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