- DP World International League T20 (ILT20) achieves a historic milestone, becoming the first Associate-run franchise league to obtain official List-A status.
- ILT20, despite having completed only one edition, emerges as a major and lucrative T20 league globally.
- The second season, featuring star players and six competitive teams, is set to clash with other prominent T20 leagues, adding an extra layer of excitement and competition.
The DP World International League T20 (ILT20) has achieved a significant milestone by becoming the first Associate-run franchise league to receive ‘official’ List-A status. This distinction elevates the league’s standing, making it a List A tournament, where all statistics will now be officially recognized. Despite having only completed one edition so far, the ILT20 has swiftly become one of the major and lucrative T20 leagues globally.
As the league gears up for its second season scheduled from January 19 to February 17, the official List A status adds a new layer of legitimacy and prestige. This recognition is not only a “major milestone” for the ILT20, as expressed by David White, the chief executive of the league, but also a “major boost” for the Associate-run franchise, signifying its strength and stature in the cricketing landscape. The acknowledgment from the International Cricket Council (ICC) is a testament to the league’s impact and potential.
The second season promises to be even more exciting, featuring star-studded lineups with renowned players such as David Warner, Andre Russell, Sunil Narine, Rahmanullah Gurbaz, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Alex Hales, Shimron Hetmyer, Chris Jordan, Trent Boult, Nicholas Pooran, Chris Woakes, Maheesh Theekshana, and many others set to showcase their talent. The ILT20, comprising six teams, including Abu Dhabi Knight Riders, Dubai Capitals, and MI Emirates, each owned by groups with stakes in IPL teams, adds a unique dimension to the league.
However, the upcoming season might face stiff competition as it overlaps with other prominent T20 leagues like SA20, BPL, BBL, and New Zealand Super Smash. This clash of schedules will undoubtedly intensify the battle for viewership and player participation, making the ILT20’s official List A status even more crucial in maintaining its position as a premier T20 league.
In the inaugural edition, Gulf Giants, led by James Vince, emerged victorious by defeating Desert Vipers in the final, setting the stage for an exciting continuation in the upcoming season. With official List A status in hand, the ILT20 is poised to build on its success and further establish itself as a formidable force in the world of franchise T20 cricket.
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