ILT20 Season 4 Shifts to December-January

The fourth edition of the UAE’s franchise-based cricket league, ILT20, is set to take place in December-January. This rescheduling aims to steer clear of the congested January-February timeframe and conclude well in advance of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, planned for February and March 2026.

Historically, the ILT20 has been held at the beginning of the year, coinciding with South Africa’s SA20, portions of Australia’s BBL, Bangladesh’s BPL, and previously, Pakistan’s PSL.

The 2025 season will commence on December 2 and continue until January 4, 2026. Notably, the start date aligns with the UAE’s National Day, Eid-al-Etihad.

While there will be some overlap with the BBL, the tournament is strategically timed to prevent any conflicts with the T20 World Cup.

Reasoning Behind the Schedule Change

ILT20 CEO David White explained the rationale behind altering the schedule. According to a statement from White, this adjustment follows in-depth discussions with stakeholders, asserting that the December 2, 2025, to January 4, 2026, window is perfect for the DP World International League T20 Season 4. Given the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup’s early February start, it was crucial to wrap up Season 4 well before the tournament, enabling players participating in both the DP World ILT20 and the T20 World Cup to adequately prepare.

He further noted that the December-January window should provide teams with enhanced access to a wider array of players.

Future Timing Unclear

It is not yet known if this is a one-time adjustment or if the December-January timeframe will become the standard for the ILT20 moving forward.

UAE National Day Alignment

ILT20 chairman and Emirates Cricket Board vice-chairman Khalid Al Zarooni expressed his satisfaction with the tournament’s timing, coinciding with the UAE National Day celebrations.

Al Zarooni stated that initiating the DP World ILT20 Season 4 on the UAE National Day 2025 is a true honor. He added that the UAE is home to millions of passionate cricket enthusiasts, emphasizing that it is a chance to celebrate the United Arab Emirates alongside people from across the globe.

The ILT20 has traditionally featured six teams, with Gulf Giants, MI Emirates, and Dubai Capitals each securing a title in the first three editions.