The ILT20 is making significant strides in nurturing young cricket talent and raising the sport's profile in the UAE, according to Tournament Director Andrew Russell. With the third season underway, Russell highlighted the league’s developmental initiatives and the growing enthusiasm for cricket in the region.
One of the standout programs in the ILT20 season 3 is a pre-match activity that allows children to play soft ball cricket in iconic stadiums like those in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Sharjah.
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“Last year, around 2,500 kids played in these stadiums during Season 2, sharing grounds with some of the best players in the world,” Russell said. “This year, we’re continuing with the mini-games format, and the demand has soared, with kids now having their own favourite teams. It’s a sign of growing awareness and excitement around the tournament.”
Several franchises have also partnered with schools and academies to deepen grassroots engagement.
Russell noted the impact of these initiatives, saying, “Over the last two years, we’ve seen 60-70% of our national team emerge from this pathway. Players are gaining valuable experience through school tournaments and development cups, proving the program’s success in fostering talent.”
The tournament has also shifted perceptions among young players, encouraging them to remain in the UAE rather than seek opportunities abroad.
“In the past, many juniors left at 15 or 16, feeling that international opportunities were limited,” Russell said. “Now, with the ILT20 providing a clear pathway to the big stage, more players are committing to domestic cricket and staying here.”
The growth of cricket infrastructure in the UAE has also been remarkable. While Dubai remains a hub for talent, Sharjah and Ajman have seen notable developments, with Ajman now boasting the highest number of turf grounds in the country. Abu Dhabi has expanded its cricket academies from just three or four to nine over the past three years.
Russell attributed part of this success to the UAE’s demographics, particularly its large South Asian population. “The love for cricket here doesn’t need to be manufactured—it already exists. We’re building on a strong foundation, and that’s largely thanks to the population demographics,” he explained.
The third season of the ILT20 began on January 11 and will run until February 9, 2025, promising another platform for the local players to showcase their skills.
