The DP World ILT20 and the Saudi Arabian Cricket Federation (SACF) celebrated their partnership at a special event in Riyadh, hosted in the presence of HRH Prince Saud Bin Mishal Al-Saud, Chairman of the Saudi Arabian Cricket Federation.
The evening was attended by DP World ILT20 Commentators and icons, Waqar Younis and Simon Doull, along with management representatives from DP World ILT20 and the Saudi Arabian Cricket Federation, reflecting the Kingdom’s growing commitment to cricket and the league’s
long-term vision to develop the game in Saudi Arabia.
Announced earlier in the year, the partnership will see DP World ILT20 work closely with the Saudi Arabian Cricket Federation and its commercial arm, the Cricket Investment Company (CIC), on developing cricket in the country alongside identifying and nurturing talent.
HRH Prince Saud Bin Mishal Al-Saud, Chairman Saudi Arabian Cricket Federation, said,
“Our partnership with the DP World 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.”
Chairman DP World ILT20 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.”
CEO DP World ILT20 David White remarked,
“It was a memorable evening in Riyadh as we celebrated a new chapter for cricket in the region with our partners at the Saudi Arabian Cricket Federation. I thank Chairman Saud Bin Mishal Al-Saud and his team for their exceptional hospitality. The DP World ILT20 has grown rapidly, and this partnership strengthens our shared vision to develop the game and create meaningful opportunities for players. With six Saudi players featuring in DP World ILT20 Season 4, and league matches set to be hosted in the Kingdom in the coming years, we are excited about the future and the role this collaboration will play in elevating cricket across the region.”
Following the league’s first-ever Player Auction in October, the six Saudi Arabian players who will feature in DP World ILT20 Season 4 are
Usman Najeeb (Dubai Capitals), Abdul Salam Khan (Sharjah Warriorz), Zain Ul Abidin (MI Emirates), Abdul Manan Ali (Abu Dhabi Knight Riders), Faisal Khan (Desert Vipers) and Ishtiaq Ahmad (Gulf Giants). The players were presented with mementos by Waqar Younis and Simon Doull to mark this milestone moment for cricket in the Kingdom.
Legendary cricketer and DP World ILT20 Commentator Waqar Younis said,
“It’s inspiring to see Saudi Arabia join hands with the DP World ILT20, a league that has already established itself as a world-class platform for talent from the region and across the world. 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.”
Former New Zealand cricketer and DP World ILT20 Commentator Simon Doull echoed the sentiment,
“This partnership between the DP World ILT20 and the Saudi Arabian Cricket Federation is a landmark moment for cricket in the region. The inclusion of Saudi players in DP World ILT20 Season 4 gives emerging talent a direct pathway into elite T20 cricket. We’ve already seen the positive impact the DP World ILT20 has had on the cricket ecosystem in the UAE, especially across grassroots endeavours, and with the possibility of matches coming to Saudi Arabia in the future, it will be a major boost for fans here and for the growth of the game.”
The evening was capped off with memorable performances by Zena Emad and Ali Zafar, adding a festive touch to a truly historic night for cricket in the Kingdom.
