The ILT20 2025 will see the return of Pakistan’s famed fast bowler Shoaib Akhtar and India’s legendary off-spinner Harbhajan Singh. The legendary cricket players will once more act as tournament ambassadors for the area’s top T20 event, which is scheduled to take place from January 11 to February 9.
With more than 711 international wickets in all forms over his storied 18-year career, Harbhajan is a seasoned player who has been a key component of the ILT20 since its start.
The 44-year-old participated in both seasons’ prestigious commentary panel as well. With 444 international wickets for Pakistan, Shoaib Akhtar, on the other hand, has also joined the ILT20 for its second season and will continue to serve as an ambassador alongside his colleague. Singh, Harbhajan
ILT20 CEO David White: “We’re thrilled to welcome back Harbhajan Singh and Shoaib Akhtar for the ILT20 Season 3, as their involvement continues to add immense value to the league. Season 2 was a huge success, with the level of competition and the quality of cricket on display exceeding all expectations. We’re looking forward to an even bigger and better tournament this year. We’re confident this season will raise the bar further and continue to contribute to the growing reputation of UAE cricket on the international stage.”
ILT20 Ambassador, Harbhajan Singh: “Being part of the ILT20 has been an incredible experience since the beginning, and each season just gets better. Season 2 was a fantastic showcase of top-notch T20 cricket, with the standard of competition pushing the boundaries of what we expect from franchise cricket. What stands out for me is how the UAE’s cricketing talent is continuing to rise, and it’s exciting to see how this league is shaping the future of the game here.
The atmosphere during the January-February window, with the beautiful weather and the buzz of New Year festivities, makes the ILT20 even more special for both players and fans. I’m looking forward to seeing more young talent shine this season and deliver some memorable moments.”
ILT20 Ambassador, Shoaib Akhtar: “It’s always a pleasure to return to the UAE, a place where I have so many fond memories from my playing days. Season 2 was an exciting display of competitive cricket, and I believe the quality of cricket will only increase as the ILT20 continues to grow.
This tournament gives a platform to not only showcase world-class talent but also helps nurture the next generation of players, which is so important for the future of UAE cricket. I’m looking forward to another exciting season and can’t wait to see how the players rise to the challenge this year.”
Bollywood stars Shahid Kapoor, Pooja Hegde, and Sonam Bajwa will be the main attractions at the grand opening ceremony for ILT20 2025. They will enthral the crowd at the Dubai International Stadium on January 11 with spectacular performances of their hit songs. 6:00 PM (local time) is when the ceremony will start. The opening ceremony will be Ridhima Pathak and renowned Bollywood actor and producer Jackky Bhagnani.
Fans can watch the game via the Zed Network and its syndication partners’ global broadcast on linear and digital platforms, and spectators will be able to enter the stadium starting at 4:00 PM (local time).
The season’s opening ball will be delivered at 7:15 p.m. (local time) when the reigning champions MI Emirates and Dubai Capitals square off in a replay of the previous year’s championship game.
At the majestic DIS, also known as The Ring of Fire, the evening offers a unique chance to witness the finest of Bollywood and T20 cricket come together. Fans may take advantage of an amazing deal that offers four tickets exclusively in the general category for just AED 40, which will further increase the excitement.
The six ILT20 franchises have retained T20 superstars like Andre Russell (Abu Dhabi Knight Riders), Sunil Narine (Abu Dhabi Knight Riders), Alex Hales (Desert Vipers), Sherfane Rutherford(Desert Vipers), David Warner (Dubai Capitals), Rovman Powell(Dubai Capitals), Chris Jordan (Gulf Giants), Shimron Hetmyer (Gulf Giants), Akeal Hossein (MI Emirates), Nicholas Pooran (MI Emirates), Adil Rashid (Sharjah Warriorz Wildcard Pick in Season 2) and Johnson Charles (Sharjah Warriorz).
After making two appearances for the Abu Dhabi Knight Riders last season, Jason Roy (Sharjah Warriorz), the legendary white-ball player from England, is back in the league. Tim Southee of New Zealand, who will captain the Sharjah Warriorz in his rookie season, has been added to the team’s roster, significantly bolstering them.
Jason Holder, once captain of the West Indies, will play for the Abu Dhabi Knight Riders. The all-round player was a member of the Dubai Capitals the previous season.
Additionally, Fakhar Zaman (Desert Vipers), Shai Hope (Dubai Capitals), Lockie Ferguson (Desert Vipers), Roston Chase(Abu Dhabi Knight Riders), Matthew Wade (Sharjah Warriorz), Ibrahim Zadran (Gulf Giants) and Romario Shepherd (MI Emirates) are set to make their ILT20 debuts in 2025.
India
