Dubai, 27 August 2025: Dubai Capitals head coach Ahmed Raza has praised the DP World ILT20 Development Tournament as a vital stepping stone for rising talent, calling it a “platform where superstars are made.” With the tournament coinciding with the league’s first-ever player auction, Raza emphasized its critical role in the development of UAE cricket’s international competitiveness.
ILT20 Development Tournament aligned with new auction format
The fourth season of the DP World ILT20 introduces a new auction-based structure for team selection, with 90 players and support staff competing for spots. Raza said:
“This is one of the most awaited domestic tournaments in our calendar. It gives players a platform to showcase their skills and put their best foot forward for the ILT20 auction this year — a first-of-its-kind in the league.”
Success stories from past editions
Raza highlighted the tournament’s proven track record in launching careers:
“Jawadullah, Haider Ali were top performers in this tournament. We drafted both, and now the UAE national team is reaping the rewards. Haider was player of the match in the series decider against Bangladesh.”
He credited the broader ILT20 ecosystem for giving players international exposure and noted key recent milestones for UAE cricket:
- Victory over Afghanistan
- Historic win against New Zealand
- Series triumph against Bangladesh in Asian conditions
Learning from global stars and building confidence
Raza described how sharing dressing rooms with global stars like Sam Billings, David Warner, and Fakhar Zaman transforms young players:
“Even if you’re just sharing space for 50 days, you come out a better player. And when they return to play for UAE, the difference is visible.”
Players to watch in this edition
Raza identified several emerging stars to keep an eye on:
- Siyam Khan – a slingy action reminiscent of Lasith Malinga
- Israr Ahmed – promising all-rounder
- Mohammed Irfan – another impactful all-rounder
Dubai Capitals’ commitment to UAE talent
As defending champions, Dubai Capitals remain focused on domestic player development:
“We’ve had the highest number of UAE players in each season. And this year, we’re going to keep getting that number higher.”
Raza recalled the franchise’s 2025 title win, where local stars Farhan and Haider Ali starred in the final:
“Haider is a product of ILT20. In his T20I debut series against Bangladesh, he claimed Player of the Match in the decider. That speaks volumes about how the league prepares players for international pressure.”
Season outlook and growing fan engagement
The 2025 edition comes in a new window, with teams “stacking up nicely,” according to Raza:
“This tournament is going to be full of superstars. We had great crowds last year and expect even better this time. Great numbers on television too.”
Where to watch the DP World ILT20 Development Tournament
- In India: Streaming live on FanCode
- Internationally: Available on Styx Sports
- Live scoring: Available via official ILT20 platforms
The tournament arrives ahead of a key stretch for UAE cricket, with a tri-series and Asia Cup return after nearly a decade. The ILT20 Development Tournament continues to be the foundation of that progress.
