Saudi cricket unveils players bound for ILT20

Saudi cricket unveils players bound for ILT20

Six Saudi Arabian players will feature in ILT20 Season 4. Each of the six participating teams has a Saudi player:

• Usman Najeeb (Dubai Capitals)
• Abdul Salam Khan (Sharjah Warriors)
• Zain Ul Abidin (MI Emirates)
• Abdul Manan Ali (Abu Dhabi Knight Riders)
• Faisal Khan (Desert Vipers)
• Ishtiaq Ahmad (Gulf Giants)

The presence of Saudi players was facilitated by a collaboration between the Saudi Arabian Cricket Federation (SACF) and the ILT20 management. The players were unveiled at an event in Riyadh in the presence of Saudi prince Saud Bin Mishal Al-Saud, chairman of the SACF, and former international cricketers Waqar Younis and Simon Doull.

The partnership will see the ILT20 work with the SACF and its commercial arm, the Cricket Investment Company (CIC), on developing cricket in the country and identifying talent.

Waqar Younis said: "It's inspiring to see Saudi Arabia join hands with the ILT20. The introduction of Saudi players into the DP World ILT20 set-up is a major step forward for the region. Playing alongside international stars and learning from top-level coaches will be an invaluable experience for them."

Saud Bin Mishal Al-Saud added: "Our partnership with the ILT20 marks an important step in the development of cricket in Saudi Arabia and supports the ambitions of Vision 2030. Our mission is to build cricket as a national asset that enhances quality of life, empowers youth, and contributes to the Kingdom's non-oil GDP."

ILT20 chairman Khalid Al Zarooni said: "It is a proud moment to celebrate this landmark partnership with the Saudi Arabian Cricket Federation. This partnership marks an exciting step as we continue to expand the DP World ILT20 vision and elevate the game across the region."

Season 4 of the league kicks off on December 2 with the final to be played on January 4.