The International League T20 (ILT20), a much-anticipated T20 franchise league, is poised to commence on Friday, January 13. This league has successfully attracted top players and coaches from around the world, filling a void in the cricketing landscape. As associate nations have garnered increased attention through events like the T20 World Cup and ICC Cricket World Cup League 2, the ILT20 aims to spotlight talented players from these non-traditional cricketing nations who often go unnoticed. Despite being hosted by the Emirates Cricket Board (ECB), an associate nation, the tournament has managed to draw renowned names in global cricket.
The tournament’s unique regulation stipulates that every playing XI must include a minimum of two players from associate nations, with one of them hailing from the UAE. The remaining nine players can represent any country.
Let’s delve into a closer examination of the participating teams:
MI Emirates
Captain: Kieron Pollard
MI Emirates, owned by Reliance Industries – also the proprietor of the triumphant IPL franchise Mumbai Indians – has made an assertive move by recruiting an impressive array of top-tier talents. Much like their IPL strategy, they’re building upon their successful core. Led by experienced Kieron Pollard and featuring notable names like Dwayne Bravo, who holds the record for the most T20 wickets with 614 scalps, as well as Trent Boult, Nicholas Pooran, Andre Fletcher, Imran Tahir, and Samit Patel, MI Emirates boasts enviable experience.
Gulf Giants
Captain: James Vince
Under the leadership of James Vince, the Gulf Giants have secured marquee players Shimron Hetmyer and Chris Lynn. Their top five, consisting of Vince, Tom Banton, Lynn, Ollie Pope, and Hetmyer, poses a formidable threat to the opposition. Hetmyer, driven by the desire to prove himself after missing out on the T20 World Cup due to logistical issues, adds an extra edge.
The team seems well-equipped in the bowling department, especially in the death overs, with the inclusion of Chris Jordan and Richard Gleeson. All-rounders Liam Dawson and David Wiese contribute both with the bat and ball. A noteworthy mention goes to UAE’s Ashwanth Valthappa, a lesser-known left-handed off-spinner, who might emerge as a surprise package.
Sharjah Warriors
Captain: Moeen Ali
Despite Marcus Stoinis’ availability being postponed until January 25 due to Big Bash League commitments, Sharjah Warriors present a well-balanced side. Moeen Ali’s team combines power-hitters, steady anchors, and substantial middle-order firepower, forming a balanced composition to tackle any situation.
While variety beyond their best XI is limited, this tournament could unveil unexpected talents when the need arises. The English trio of Tom Kohler-Cadmore, Joe Denly, and Dawid Malan will likely play pivotal roles in Sharjah Warriors’ pursuit of success.
Desert Vipers
Captain: Colin Munro
The Desert Vipers boast a plethora of options in the left-arm pace department, including Sheldon Cottrell, Ruben Trumpelmann, Tymal Mills, and UAE’s Shiraz Ahmed, all vying for two spots. Their spin artillery includes left-arm wrist spinner Jake Lintott and orthodox spinner Mark Watt.
Incorporating emerging talents like all-rounder Ronak Panoly and left-handed batter Ali Naseer adds a youthful dimension. One of them is anticipated to play a substantial role in the XI, while experienced all-rounder Rohan Mustafa secures one of the two mandatory UAE spots.
Abu Dhabi Knight Riders
Captain: Sunil Narine
Hailing from the Knight Riders franchise universe – stemming from Kolkata and reaching Trinidad & Tobago – the Abu Dhabi Knight Riders feature a core led by Sunil Narine and Andre Russell. Narine takes the reins as skipper for Abu Dhabi’s debut campaign.
Joined by Akeal Hosein in the XI, Abu Dhabi’s spin department appears solid with two adept finger spinners. Both bowlers boast an economy of under 7 in T20s since 2022. Paul Stirling enhances their off-spin options. This quartet of Narine, Russell, Hosein, and Stirling impeccably fulfills the all-rounders’ role. Additionally, they offer potent pace options with Marchant de Lange and Lahiru Kumara.
Dubai Capitals
Captain: Rovman Powell
Dubai Capitals, the counterpart of Delhi Capitals, is brimming with batting all-rounders. They possess four prime batters in their squad who can chip in with part-time off-spin as needed, allowing them to field at least two in the XI. Furthermore, Fabian Allen, Dasun Shanaka, and Chamika Karunaratne add depth to their all-rounder roster. The team’s batting reserves are extensive, ensuring ample backups for each position.
Sikandar Raza assumes the role of a budget Narine, contributing with his bowling and ferocious batting skills at the peak of his career. He, alongside skipper Rovman Powell and Shanaka, forms the team’s crucial trio. The presence of Mujeeb Ur Rahman safeguards their spin department.
Inaugurating on January 13, the ILT20 promises to spotlight the talent from associate nations while hosting a constellation of cricketing luminaries on the UAE stage.
