Ariana Radio and Television Network (ATN) has secured exclusive television and digital media rights in Afghanistan for Season 5 of the DP World International League T20 (ILT20), expanding its cricket broadcasting portfolio with another major franchise competition.
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The agreement will provide Afghan audiences with access to the United Arab Emirates-based league, which brings together six franchises featuring international cricketers alongside emerging talent from the region.
The acquisition also strengthens ATN’s sports programming offering in a market with a significant following for international T20 cricket.
ILT20 Season 5 schedule and participating teams
The fifth edition of the ILT20 will take place from November 21 to December 20, 2026, with 34 matches scheduled across three venues in the UAE: Dubai International Stadium, Zayed Cricket Stadium in Abu Dhabi and Sharjah Cricket Stadium.
Six franchises will compete in the tournament: Abu Dhabi Knight Riders, Desert Vipers, Dubai Capitals, Gulf Giants, MI Emirates and Sharjah Warriorz.
The competition will feature 30 group-stage matches followed by four playoff fixtures, including the final.
Afghan players add to ILT20’s audience appeal
The league’s connections with Afghanistan cricket provide an additional attraction for local viewers. Afghan internationals Rashid Khan, Fazalhaq Farooqi and Mohammad Nabi have been associated with franchises competing in the ILT20.
Their involvement with the competition reflects the presence of Afghan talent in overseas franchise leagues, although their participation in the upcoming season has not been confirmed in the announcement.
For ATN, the broadcast rights create an opportunity to bring another international T20 property to viewers through both conventional television and digital distribution.
Further details regarding match coverage, television schedules and digital viewing options are expected to be announced ahead of the tournament.
