ILT20 2025: The International League T20 (ILT20) is set to make a grand return for its third season in 2025, and cricket fans are already buzzing with excitement. The six franchises have unveiled their retention lists, featuring a mix of seasoned internationals and promising local talents.
Let’s have a look into more details: ILT20 2025
ILT20 Season 3: Key Retentions and Notable Absentees
The ILT20 has quickly become a marquee event in the T20 cricket calendar, attracting global superstars and providing thrilling action. This year, 69 players have been retained across the six franchises. From big hitters like Sunil Narine to pace maestros like Mohammad Amir, here’s a look at the stars who will be lighting up the UAE stadiums in 2025.
Abu Dhabi Knight Riders
The Abu Dhabi Knight Riders have once again secured the services of the Caribbean powerhouse Sunil Narine. Known for his wizardry with both bat and ball, Narine is set to be a cornerstone of the team. Joining him are big names like Andre Russell and David Willey, who bring a wealth of experience and firepower. The Knight Riders have also retained promising local talents like Aditya Shetty and Alishan Sharafu.
Full Retention List:
- International Stars: Sunil Narine, Andre Russell, David Willey, Joe Clarke, Laurie Evans, Charith Asalanka, Andries Gous, Ali Khan
- Local Talents: Aditya Shetty, Alishan Sharafu
Desert Vipers
Desert Vipers have retained their star-studded lineup, featuring the destructive batsman Alex Hales and the versatile all rounder Wanindu Hasaranga. Pakistani pacer Mohammad Amir remains with the Vipers, ensuring a lethal bowling attack. Emerging talents like Ali Naseer and Bas de Leede will be looking to make a mark alongside these seasoned pros.
Full Retention List:
- International Stars: Alex Hales, Wanindu Hasaranga, Mohammad Amir, Azam Khan, Sherfane Rutherford, Luke Wood
- Local Talents: Ali Naseer, Tanish Suri
Dubai Capitals
The Dubai Capitals have secured the services of cricketing stalwarts such as David Warner and Sam Billings, providing stability and experience. Notably, they have retained emerging players like Jake Fraser-McGurk, who impressed in previous seasons. With seasoned pros and young talents, the Capitals are set for a balanced squad.
Full Retention List:
- International Stars: David Warner, Sam Billings, Dasun Shanaka, Sikandar Raza, Dushmantha Chameera
- Local Talents: Haider Ali, Raja Akif
Gulf Giants
Gulf Giants will continue to feature some of the most exciting players in the T20 circuit. Shimron Hetmyer, known for his explosive batting, and Chris Jordan, a death over specialist, headline their retention list. Captain James Vince will be crucial in steering the team, while young UAE players like Aayan Afzal Khan will look to shine.
Full Retention List:
- International Stars: Shimron Hetmyer, Chris Jordan, Jamie Overton, James Vince, Rehan Ahmed
- Local Talents: Aayan Afzal Khan, Mohammad Zohaib Zubair
MI Emirates
Defending champions MI Emirates have retained a core group of stars that powered their triumph last season. Nicholas Pooran, who led them to victory, remains at the helm. Alongside him are T20 legends like Kieron Pollard and Dwayne Bravo. The franchise has also kept its eye on future stars by retaining players like Muhammad Rohid Khan.
Full Retention List:
- International Stars: Nicholas Pooran, Kieron Pollard, Dwayne Bravo, Akeal Hosein, Fazalhaq Farooqi
- Local Talents: Muhammad Rohid Khan, Muhammad Waseem
Sharjah Warriors
The Sharjah Warriors have opted to retain a mix of international stars and promising local players. Tom Kohler-Cadmore and Kusal Mendis will provide the firepower in the batting lineup, while Dilshan Madushanka and Peter Hatzoglou will lead the bowling attack. The Warriors will look to leverage their local talents like Junaid Siddique for a competitive edge.
Full Retention List:
- International Stars: Tom Kohler-Cadmore, Kusal Mendis, Peter Hatzoglou, Johnson Charles, Luke Wells
- Local Talents: Junaid Siddique, Muhammad Jawadullah
While many stars were retained, some notable players from last season missed the cut. England’s Joe Root and pacer Mark Wood were not retained by Dubai Capitals, and Shaheen Shah Afridi, a key figure for Desert Vipers last season, is also absent from this year’s list. These omissions highlight the competitive nature of the league and the strategic decisions made by the franchises.
With the retention lists finalized, the franchises now turn their focus to the player acquisition window, which remains open until September 15. Teams will also be scouting for emerging local talent during the ILT20 development tournament in October.
FAQ
When does the ILT20 2025 season start?
The ILT20 2025 season kicks off on January 11, 2025
