Dubai Capitals and Desert Vipers kicked off the 18-match development tournament yesterday at ICC Academy in Sports City, showcasing their cricket skills ahead of the DP World ILT20 2025 Player Auction, which takes place just days after the Asia Cup.
Over the next eleven days, six ILT20 development teams—Abu Dhabi Knight Riders, Desert Vipers, Dubai Capitals, Gulf Giants, MI Emirates and Sharjah Warriors—will compete with the aim of developing a UAE homegrown team. Performances during this period will be crucial for players and will give fans a clear picture of what to expect for the future of cricket in the UAE.
The CEO of ILT20 DP World, David White, was pitch side yesterday watching the Desert Vipers in action while being interviewed about the event.
CEO of ILT20 DP World – David White. Photo Credit: Brooke Gabel
‘Everyone talks about the big leagues’
White described the next week as critical and emphasised how important this opportunity is for players looking to represent the UAE. He highlighted the reputation of the league, saying:
“When everyone talks about the big leagues around the world, they talk about DP World ILT20.”
‘Building depth for UAE cricket’
White also discussed the long-term vision for the game in the UAE: “It’s critical for ILT20 and for UAE cricket to build depth.” He expressed hope that cricket in the UAE will continue to grow, noting that tournaments like this inspire young people to get involved when they see the opportunities available and the progress of the sport locally in just the past year.
This is the third edition of the DP World ILT20 Development tournament. White noted improvements since last year, praising the quality of players, their preparation, and their approach to strength and conditioning—highlighting the discipline and motivation on display this week.
‘Where the superstars are made’
Dubai Capitals head coach, UAE women’s coach, and former UAE men’s captain Ahmed Raza also shared his perspective. He described the tournament as a place where future stars emerge. Pitch side with the Dubai Capitals, he observed the squad’s relaxed but focused mood.
Raza also explained the challenge of building a squad:
“It’s always a jigsaw puzzle when you’re putting a team together.”
He stressed the importance of contributing to the game and performing at the highest level.
In the first match, Desert Vipers Development edged Dubai Capitals Development by 1 wicket, with many more games to come.
The event as a whole was a clear insight into what to expect over the next eleven days. It was particularly beneficial hearing White and Raza’s opinions prior to this tournament, both of which seem excited for the opportunities to come for these development teams as well as the players participating.
