The International League T20 (ILT20) is set for a thrilling third season as teams have finalized their rosters with some of the most prominent names in global T20 cricket. The player signing window, which began in June and closed on 15 September, saw top international stars bolster the six participating franchises.
The tournament will run from 11 January to 9 February 2025, across Abu Dhabi, Dubai, and Sharjah.
Among the high-profile signings are England’s Jason Roy, who joins Sharjah Warriorz, and Pakistan’s Fakhar Zaman, who will strengthen the Desert Vipers alongside New Zealand fast bowler Lockie Ferguson. West Indies wicketkeeper-batter Shai Hope also makes his ILT20 debut, joining the Dubai Capitals.
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Star signings and strategic additions
The Sharjah Warriorz secured key players like Australia’s Matthew Wade, while Afghanistan’s Ibrahim Zadran joins the defending champions, Gulf Giants. Romario Shepherd, the West Indies all-rounder, has signed with MI Emirates, boosting the team’s already formidable lineup.
Abu Dhabi Knight Riders (ADKR) have enhanced their squad with West Indies all-rounder Roston Chase and left-arm spinner Gudakesh Motie, alongside emerging talents like Afghanistan’s Allah Mohammad Ghazanfar and USA’s Hassan Khan. Meanwhile, the Desert Vipers, finalists in Season 1, added depth with signings such as Dan Lawrence and David Payne.
Teams have the option to make additional signings with approval from the ILT20 Technical Committee. Further, a draft to recruit additional UAE players will take place following the ILT20 Development Tournament next month.
Complete squad lineups ahead of season 3
The six teams have retained several key players and made strategic additions to their lineups. Notable retentions include Andre Russell with ADKR, Alex Hales with Desert Vipers, and Rovman Powell with the Dubai Capitals. Defending champions Gulf Giants have retained England’s James Vince and West Indies’ Shimron Hetmyer, while MI Emirates keep veterans like Kieron Pollard and Nicholas Pooran.
Fans are eagerly awaiting the start of ILT20 Season 3, which promises to deliver high-octane action with some of the best T20 talents on display.
