Saudi Arabia is preparing to launch its first professional franchise cricket competition with the Dunes T20 League set to begin in October 2026, marking a significant step in the Kingdom’s expanding involvement in the global cricket landscape. The six-team tournament will be staged during the second week of October and is expected to feature legends of the international game alongside emerging regional talent.
The league is being introduced through a partnership involving South Asian Network Limited, Unique Sports Group and Prolithic Talent Agency after South Asian Network Limited secured rights from the Saudi Arabian Cricket Federation to establish and operate the competition. Matches are expected to be played in Taif near Jeddah as organisers continue preparations for the inaugural season.
Former India All-rounder Yuvraj Singh has joined the project as League Ambassador ahead of the tournament’s launch, with organisers positioning the competition as part of wider efforts to support cricket growth across Saudi Arabia and the surrounding region.
Saudi Arabia pushes further into cricket expansion
The Dunes T20 League represents Saudi Arabia’s first major move into operating a domestic franchise cricket tournament as the country continues increasing its involvement across international sport and entertainment. Cricket activity in the Kingdom has expanded in recent years through partnerships, hosting arrangements and commercial relationships linked to the global game.
Saudi Arabia has previously been involved in cricket through initiatives connected to international governing bodies and regional T20 events, while also pursuing opportunities tied to the development of women’s cricket in the region.
BBC Sport reported that individuals connected to the project view the tournament as an early stage in a broader long-term strategy to establish a larger franchise cricket ecosystem in Saudi Arabia capable of attracting leading international players in future editions. The report added that potential investors are also being encouraged to explore wider business opportunities connected to the Saudi market through involvement in the competition.
League organisers outline long-term ambitions
The Dunes T20 League is expected to combine experienced franchise cricketers with emerging local talent as organisers continue discussions around teams, commercial partnerships and operational planning ahead of the October launch.
A South Asian Network Limited spokesperson said in an official statement: “This partnership marks a defining moment for the growth of cricket in Saudi Arabia. Together with Unique Sports Group and Prolithic, and with the support of the Saudi Arabian Cricket Federation, we aim to build an exciting T20 league that attracts global talent and delivers lasting sporting and commercial value.”
Yuvraj Singh also outlined the competition’s ambitions to expand cricket opportunities in the region and inspire future generations of players.
Yuvraj Singh said in an official statement: “Really looking forward to joining the Dunes T20 League as League Ambassador at such an exciting time for cricket in Saudi Arabia. This league has the vision and ambition to grow the game in a new market, create opportunities for local emerging players, and bring fans a truly authentic cricket experience. What makes it even more exciting is the opportunity to see legends of the international game come together alongside rising talent to inspire the next generation. I’m looking forward to helping build something special that can leave a lasting impact on cricket in the region.”
Further announcements regarding venues, teams, broadcast arrangements and commercial partnerships are expected in the lead-up to the tournament’s inaugural edition later this year.
