The much-anticipated third season of the International League T20 (ILT20) is set to begin with an electrifying rematch of last season’s final between defending champions MI Emirates and Dubai Capitals. The opening game will take place on Saturday, January 11, 2025, at 6:00 PM local time at the Dubai International Stadium.
Exciting Fixtures to Kick Off Season 3
The action continues on Sunday, January 12, with the Abu Dhabi Knight Riders launching their campaign against Season 1 finalists Desert Vipers at the Zayed Cricket Stadium, Abu Dhabi, at 2:00 PM. Later in the day, the Gulf Giants, champions of Season 1, will take on the Sharjah Warriorz in their opener at the Dubai International Stadium.
Sharjah Cricket Stadium will host its first match on Friday, January 17, featuring the Sharjah Warriorz and Dubai Capitals in a thrilling contest.
Venues and Match Schedule
This season will see a total of 34 matches across three iconic venues:
Dubai International Stadium: 15 matches
Zayed Cricket Stadium, Abu Dhabi: 11 matches
Sharjah Cricket Stadium: 8 matches
Weekday evening games are scheduled for 6:30 PM, while weekend matches will begin at 6:00 PM. Double-header weekends will also feature afternoon games at 2:00 PM. The season finale is slated for Sunday, February 9, 2025, at the Dubai International Stadium.
Star-Studded Lineups
The six ILT20 franchises have retained a host of global T20 superstars, including Andre Russell, Sunil Narine, Alex Hales, David Warner, Rovman Powell, Chris Jordan, and Nicholas Pooran. New faces like Jason Roy, Fakhar Zaman, Lockie Ferguson, Matthew Wade, and Romario Shepherd will make their ILT20 debuts this season.
CEO’s Vision for Season 3
ILT20 CEO David White expressed excitement for the upcoming season, stating, “We are thrilled to unveil the schedule for Season 3, which promises to be bigger and better. Fans can expect thrilling performances from world-class players and top UAE talent. The DP World ILT20 trophy remains one of the most coveted titles, and we anticipate fierce competition throughout the tournament.”
White also highlighted fan engagement initiatives, including special ticket offers and fan carnivals at stadiums in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Sharjah, creating an unforgettable cricketing experience for spectators and tourists.
Full Match Schedule
Key Matches:
January 11: MI Emirates vs Dubai Capitals, Dubai – 6:00 PM
January 12: Abu Dhabi Knight Riders vs Desert Vipers, Abu Dhabi – 2:00 PM
January 12: Gulf Giants vs Sharjah Warriorz, Dubai – 6:00 PM
January 17: Sharjah Warriorz vs Dubai Capitals, Sharjah – 6:30 PM
February 9: Final, Dubai – 6:00 PM
Playoffs:
February 5: Qualifier 1, Dubai – 6:30 PM
February 6: Eliminator, Abu Dhabi – 6:30 PM
February 7: Qualifier 2, Sharjah – 6:30 PM
A Month of Thrilling Cricket
With its star-studded lineups and a competitive format, the ILT20 Season 3 is set to deliver a month of high-octane cricket. Fans can catch all the action live on Zee Network in India and through global broadcast partners, with announcements for syndication partners expected soon.
Mark your calendars for January 11, 2025, as the battle for the ILT20 crown begins!
