After a successful first season, the Emirates Cricket Board is all set for the second edition of the International League T20 (ILT20), starting on January 19. The Sharjah Cricket Stadium in Sharjah, the Dubai International Cricket Stadium in Dubai, and the Sheikh Zayed Stadium in Abu Dhabi are the three finalized venues for the upcoming season.
A total of six teams will participate in the tournament – Desert Vipers, Abu Dhabi Knight Riders, Sharjah Warriors, Dubai Capitals, MI Emirates, and Gulf Giants. Giants won the inaugural edition after defeating Desert Vipers by seven wickets in the grand finale.
Sunil Narine will lead the Knight Riders, while Colin Munro will captain the Desert Vipers, with David Warner taking the leadership duties of Dubai Capitals. Gulf Giants will be led by explosive batter James Vince, while MI Emirates will be guided by dashing all-rounder Kieron Pollard. Tom Kohler Cadmore will take over the captaincy duties of the Sharjah Warriors.
Close to 200 international, uncapped, and domestic cricketers will take part in the month-long competition. It would be an exciting opportunity for budding cricketers and local talent to rub their shoulders with experienced stars.