ILT20 Development Tournament to Start on August 24 in Dubai
The third edition of the DP World International League T20 (ILT20) Development Tournament will begin on 24 August 2025. The matches will be played at the ICC Academy Oval 1 in Dubai. This year’s tournament will have 18 matches and will follow a single-league, round-robin format.
This event is one of the most important in the UAE cricket calendar. It gives young and upcoming players a chance to play competitive cricket and show their talent in front of professional team selectors. The tournament also serves as a direct path to the main ILT20 Season 4, which will be held from December 2025 to January 2026.
Six Teams Will Compete for the Title
Six development squads linked to the main ILT20 franchises will take part in the competition:
- Abu Dhabi Knight Riders Development
- Desert Vipers Development
- Dubai Capitals Development
- Gulf Giants Development (defending champions)
- MI Emirates Development
- Sharjah Warriorz Development
Each team will have 15 players. All players will come from the UAE domestic cricket system. The Player Selection Draft will be held on 18 August 2025 at the Dubai International Stadium. This draft will decide which players join each team.
The Gulf Giants Development team won the tournament last year. They will return to defend their title against tough competition from the other five teams.
A Big Chance for New Players
This year’s tournament will be special for new players. The UAE national team will be busy playing in two major tournaments the Sharjah Tri-Series from 29 August to 7 September 2025 and the ACC Men’s T20 Asia Cup 2025.
Because of this, many senior players will not be part of the Development Tournament. That means there are more spots open for young and less experienced players. This is a golden chance for them to perform well and catch the attention of franchise selectors.
Local Players Are a Key Part of the Main League
For the main ILT20 Season 4, each franchise must include at least four UAE players in their squad. This rule ensures that local cricket talent continues to grow and get exposure.
The Development Tournament is the best place for these players to show that they deserve a spot in the big league. Every good batting innings, bowling spell, or fielding effort could bring them closer to a professional contract.
Success Stories from Past Tournaments
The Development Tournament has already produced players who went on to play in the main ILT20.
One of them is Farhan Ahmed, a fast bowler who was discovered by the Dubai Capitals during last year’s tournament. He later became a key player for the Capitals in ILT20 Season 3 and helped them win the title.
Another success story is Saghir Khan, who impressed in the Development Tournament and was picked by the Gulf Giants for the main competition. These examples show that the tournament can change a player’s career in just one season.
Words from the Tournament Director
Andrew Russell, Tournament Director for the DP World ILT20 Development Tournament, highlighted the importance of this event.
“The DP World ILT20 Development Tournament is one of the most sought-after events in the Emirates Cricket Board’s domestic calendar. It is the perfect platform for young and emerging players in the country to show their skills and claim a place in the DP World ILT20.”
He also said:
“This year could be the biggest opportunity for new talent to shine. With the UAE national team away for the Tri-Series and the Asia Cup, there are many places up for grabs.”
Next Step: The Player Auction
After the Asia Cup, attention will turn to the ILT20 Season 4 Player Auction. This will be held at the end of September 2025.
Each franchise will be allowed to sign 13 more players during the auction. That means 78 new players will join the main league across all six teams.
Strong performances in the Development Tournament will greatly improve a player’s chances of being selected.
Season 4 will begin on 2 December 2025, the UAE’s National Day. It will feature 34 matches and end in early January 2026.
Dubai: A Perfect Host for the Tournament
The ICC Academy Oval 1 in Dubai is one of the best cricket facilities in the region. It has hosted many top-level matches and is known for its excellent pitches and training facilities.
Dubai’s central location, modern infrastructure, and passionate cricket fans make it an ideal place for hosting a tournament that aims to discover and promote new talent.
Helping UAE Cricket Grow
The DP World ILT20 Development Tournament is more than just a competition. It is a step towards building a strong future for cricket in the UAE. By giving local players a chance to play competitive T20 cricket, the tournament strengthens the player pool for both domestic and international events.
The focus on talent development will help the UAE national team perform better in major tournaments, while also increasing the country’s presence in the global cricket scene.
A Tournament That Can Shape Cricket Careers
The third edition of the DP World ILT20 Development Tournament is not only a showcase of skill but also a life-changing opportunity for many young players. Starting 24 August 2025, the tournament will provide a stage where future cricket stars can prove themselves.
With the national team away, more spots are available for emerging players to make their mark. The eyes of selectors, coaches, and cricket fans will be on Dubai as the UAE’s next generation of cricket talent steps forward.
