ILT20 (UAE) Explained
The International League T20 (ILT20) is the UAE's franchise T20 league. Learn about its six franchises, format, player draft, and how it became a fast-growing competition in world cricket.
The International League T20 (ILT20) is the United Arab Emirates' premier franchise cricket competition, launched in January 2023 under the oversight of Emirates Cricket Board (ECB UAE) and with the participation of six IPL franchise-linked ownership groups. ILT20 was designed to be one of the world's top T20 leagues from day one, using IPL's global network to attract marquee international players.
Six IPL-linked franchises
All six ILT20 franchises are owned by IPL groups: Desert Vipers (Virat Kohli's ownership group), MI Emirates (Mumbai Indians), Gulf Giants (Kolkata Knight Riders and Lucknow Super Giants consortium), Abu Dhabi Knight Riders (KKR), Sharjah Warriorz (KKR affiliate), and Dubai Capitals (Delhi Capitals). This IPL alignment gave ILT20 instant credibility, broadcast infrastructure, and access to top-tier international players.
Format and venues
ILT20 runs in January–February each year, fitting into the gap after the New Zealand/South Africa/Australia domestic season and before the PSL. Matches are held across the UAE's three premier cricket venues: Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Sharjah Cricket Stadium, and the Zayed Cricket Stadium in Abu Dhabi. These are experienced hosts of international cricket, having hosted Pakistan's home matches for many years when Pakistan could not host at home.
Player draft and overseas spots
ILT20 uses a player draft mechanism where franchises select both local UAE/associate cricket players and international stars. The overseas player allowance is generous — a high proportion of each match-day squad can be from outside the UAE — reflecting the reality that UAE-born talent is still developing depth. Each franchise typically has 3–4 marquee international players supplemented by associate cricket talent from Pakistan, India, South Africa, and Afghanistan who hold UAE or associate eligibility.
The UAE cricket context
The UAE has a large South Asian expatriate population, creating a naturally cricket-passionate audience. For decades, this meant UAE stadiums filled for Pakistan home matches and bilateral series. ILT20 taps into this audience with a world-class product. The UAE cricket board sees the league as a vehicle for developing local cricketing talent while immediately competing with established global leagues.
Frequently asked questions
When is ILT20 held?
ILT20 is held in January and February each year, typically running for four to five weeks. The timing fits between major ICC events and the PSL, allowing international players to participate before the Pakistan and Indian domestic seasons ramp up.
Which IPL teams own ILT20 franchises?
All six ILT20 franchises have IPL connections: MI Emirates (Mumbai Indians), Abu Dhabi Knight Riders and Gulf Giants (KKR group), Dubai Capitals (Delhi Capitals), Desert Vipers, and Sharjah Warriorz. The IPL franchise model was used as the template for ILT20's ownership structure.
Is ILT20 recognised by the ICC?
Yes. ILT20 operates under Emirates Cricket Board, a full ICC associate member. The league has ICC-recognised status and its match results count as T20I cricket for participating associate cricketers. International players from full members participate as overseas players rather than accruing T20I caps.