From academy to global stage: ILT20 Development Tournament opens in Dubai

Dubai: Dubai’s budding cricketers are once again in the spotlight as the DP World ILT20 Development Tournament returned on Sunday, offering youngsters a rare chance to turn local promise into global opportunity.

Now in its third edition, the competition at the ICC Academy has become a key pathway into the DP World ILT20, where UAE players are guaranteed starting roles in every franchise XI. For David White, CEO of the league, the tournament is central to raising both standards and ambition.

“It’s a great opportunity for these young men to stake a claim for Season 4 of the DP World ILT20,” White said. “The standard improved significantly last year, and I’m confident it will go up another level this time.”

White stressed that the impact extends beyond skills with bat and ball. “Not only their cricketing ability, but also their attitude, strength and conditioning, and overall professionalism have grown. Playing under live cameras adds both pressure and incentive, and several players from this tournament have already gone on to succeed in the main league.”

With the ILT20 Player Auction scheduled just days after the Asia Cup 2025, this year’s development tournament carries even greater weight. Teams will be looking to secure the best of UAE’s talent pool, with each franchise required to field at least two local players. “If they get picked, they’ll not only play but also train with world-class coaches,” White noted.

Global standing

While the development event fuels the pipeline, the league itself has grown rapidly in stature. Season 4 of the DP World ILT20 will run from December 2 to January 4, and White believes it is now firmly established in the global cricket calendar.

“Last year the league really stepped up. When people talk about the big leagues around the world, DP World ILT20 is part of that conversation. We’re mainstream now — a league that’s growing, getting bigger every year — and I’m really excited about Season 4.”

Festive appeal

The timing, White added, has become one of the league’s greatest strengths. “December and early January is a tremendous time for us. The Christmas and New Year period will bring in big crowds and give cricket in this region a strong focus.”

Boost to UAE cricket

For White, the ultimate success of the ILT20 lies in its contribution to the UAE game. “The national team has increased its depth, now qualifies for the Asia Cup, and has the ability to beat any side on its day. Afghanistan, Pakistan and UAE players have all benefited from playing in the DP World ILT20, in these conditions, which is invaluable.”

As the development tournament unfolds, the ICC Academy will serve as both a stage and a filter — the place where UAE’s hopefuls chase the step up into one of cricket’s newest and fastest-growing leagues.