Saudi cricket unveils players bound for ILT20

In a first of sorts, six Saudi Arabian players will feature in ILT20 Season 4. Each of the six participating teams has a Saudi player - Usman Najeeb (Dubai Capitals), Abdul Salam Khan (Sharjah Warriors), Zain Ul Abidin (MI Emirates), Abdul Manan Ali (Abu Dhabi Knight Riders), Faisal Khan (Desert Vipers) and Ishtiaq Ahmad (Gulf Giants).

The presence of Saudi players was facilitated by a collaboration between the Saudi Arabian Cricket Federation (SACF) and the ILT20 management. The players were unveiled at an event in Riyadh on Tuesday (November 18) in the presence of Saudi prince Saud Bin Mishal Al-Saud, chairman of the SACF, and a pair of former international cricketer - Waqar Younis and Simon Doull.

Announced earlier in the year, the partnership will see the ILT20 work with the SACF and its commercial arm, the Cricket Investment Company (CIC), on developing cricket in the country, besides identifying and nurturing talent. "It's inspiring to see Saudi Arabia join hands with the ILT20. The introduction of Saudi players into the DP World ILT20 set-up is a major step forward for the region. Playing alongside international stars and learning from top-level coaches will be an invaluable experience for them," said Younis.

"Our partnership with the ILT20 marks an important step in the development of cricket in Saudi Arabia and supports the ambitions of Vision 2030. Our mission is to build cricket as a national asset that enhances quality of life, empowers youth, and contributes to the Kingdom's non-oil GDP. We are not only developing cricket - we are building a sustainable industry that attracts investment and strengthens our global collaboration," Saud Bin Mishal Al-Saud said.

ILT20 chairman Khalid Al Zarooni added: "It is a proud moment to celebrate this landmark partnership with the Saudi Arabian Cricket Federation. I thank His Royal Highness Prince Saud Bin Mishal Al-Saud for his leadership and hospitality, and the SACF team for hosting a wonderful event. This partnership marks an exciting step as we continue to expand the DP World ILT20 vision and elevate the game across the region."

The Season 4 of the league runs kicks off on December 2 with the final to be played on January 4.