The fifth season of the UAE’s ILT20 league will begin on November 22 and run until December 20 this year, with 34 regular matches – 30 in the league stage and four playoffs – across three major cricket grounds in the region: Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Sharjah.
As in the previous four editions, the final will once again be held in Dubai.
The window of the tournament has been adjusted once again, changing from January-February to December-January before the previous season, and is now scheduled earlier.
The change has been made to avoid conflicts with other major franchise leagues taking place during the same period, including the SA20, which is due to start after January 10 next year.
“We are delighted with the success of Season 4,” ILT20 chief executive David White said in a statement on Monday. “The broadcast numbers, audience interest and the participation of the biggest T20 stars made the tournament a huge success as the quality of the league grew further.
“aILT20 continues to make massive strides, and our strategic partnerships with the Saudi Arabia Cricket Federation and Kuwait Cricket are already making a big impact. This year, these partnerships will be further consolidated through our development tournaments, which will be played in both countries ahead of Season 5.”
As in the previous season, the bidding will be held for six franchises – defending champions Desert Vipers, Gulf Giants, MI Emirates, Dubai Capitals, Sharjah Warriors and Abu Dhabi Knight Riders.
“We’re already gearing up for this year’s auction,” White said.
Among the six teams, Desert Vipers, Gulf Giants, MI Emirates and Dubai Capitals have previously won the ILT20 title.