Ahead of its new season, DP World ILT20 celebrated their partnership with Kuwait Cricket at a special event in Kuwait City on Monday.
Six Kuwait-based players earned contracts for the upcoming edition of the tournament in the auction last month: Mohamed Aslam (Sharjah Warriors), Mohamed Shafeeq (MI Emirates), Bilal Tahir (Desert Vipers), Meet Bhavsar (Gulf Giants), Adnan Idrees (Abu Dhabi Knight Riders), and Anudeep Chenthamara (Dubai Capitals). The inclusion of those players is a landmark step for cricket’s growth in the region, and shows strong ties between the ILT20 and Kuwait Cricket.
The ceremony, which included a performance from renowned artist Ali Zafar, concluded with the Kuwait Cricket Player Awards, which recognise standout talent and performances for Kuwait. Commentators for the ILT20, such as Harbhajan Singh and Waqar Younis, were also in attendance.
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President Kuwait Cricket Haider Farman said: “It was an absolute pleasure to welcome the esteemed board members and guests of the DP World ILT20 to Kuwait Cricket. This collaboration marks a monumental step forward for cricket’s growth in our region, highlighted by six Kuwait-based players being auctioned in Season 4. The celebration was even more special with legends like Harbhajan Singh, Waqar Younis, and Simon Doull joining us, and a power-packed performance by Ali Zafar to make it a truly unforgettable evening.”
Board Advisor DP World ILT20 Sajid Ashraf said: “Last night was nothing short of historic for Kuwait Cricket and the Gulf region. To celebrate this partnership with DP World ILT20 alongside legends like Harbhajan Singh, Waqar Younis, and Simon Doull was truly special. The enthusiastic participation of Kuwait’s leading corporate giants in this event reflects the growing confidence in our cricketing vision and the league’s immense potential.
Former India spinner Harbhajan Singh added: “It’s wonderful to be here in Kuwait with the DP World ILT20 team. I’ve been involved with the league since day one, and they’ve worked really hard to make this happen. Today we’re launching something truly special, Kuwait Cricket is reaching new heights, and full credit goes to the DP World ILT20 team. This partnership gives players from Kuwait a chance to live their dream and to play alongside legends.
“The DP World ILT20 is a massive platform, and I’d tell these players to grab the opportunity and show the world what they’re made of. I’m also looking forward to seeing a stadium come up here in Kuwait, which will be another big step forward for the sport in the region.”
Pakistan great Waqar Younis said: “The league keeps getting better each season, and the progress has been remarkable. With the opportunities created by DP World and the ILT20, more young players are getting the platform to showcase their talent.”
This year’s tournament will be the fourth edition of the ILT20, and will begin on December 2. Last season saw Dubai Capitals win their first title, after chasing down 190 in the final after a blistering finish from Sikandar Raza. The matches in the tournament for this edition will be split between Dubai, Sharjah and Abu Dhabi, with the final set to take place in Dubai on January 4, 2026.
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