The DP World International League T20 (ILT20) is set to kick off its Season 5 on Sunday, November 22 and run through Sunday, December 20, with the title match scheduled at the Dubai International Stadium. The six-team competition will feature 34 matches in total and brings together a mix of long-established T20 performers and emerging names from across the cricketing world.
ILT20 Season 5 dates and wider context
- Season 5 will begin on Sunday, November 22.
- The tournament will conclude on Sunday, December 20.
- The final will be played at the Dubai International Stadium.
- The event shifted to the December window from Season 4, after the first three editions were staged in the January–February period.
- Season 4 culminated with the final on January 4, staged before a full house at the Dubai International Stadium.
In that Season 4 title game, Desert Vipers secured their first-ever championship by beating MI Emirates by 46 runs, lifting their maiden trophy in front of a packed venue. The league’s move to December was highlighted as part of the tournament’s continued evolution, building on the momentum created by earlier seasons.
David White, the CEO of ILT20, welcomed the confirmation of the Season 5 window and pointed to the progress made in the previous edition. He said, “We are pleased to confirm the DP World International League T20 Season 5 window. The biggest cricketing spectacle in the Gulf region will be played from Sunday, November 22 to Sunday, December 20, 2026. We are delighted with Season 4’s success. The broadcast numbers, spectator interest, and the participation of top T20 stars made the tournament a remarkable success, as the quality of the league grew further.”
Standout performers and star line-up from Season 4
Season 4 produced several standout individual displays, with awards recognising both batting and bowling impact as well as regional contribution. Sam Curran of Desert Vipers was named Player of the Tournament and also won the Best Batter award, receiving the Red and Green Belts. For MI Emirates, Waqar Salamkheil earned the Best Bowler honour and was awarded the White Belt, while Muhammad Waseem was celebrated as the Best UAE Player and awarded the Blue Belt.
The same edition also showcased an array of international talent, with names including Andre Russell, Azmatullah Omarzai, Dinesh Karthik, Pathum Nissanka, Fakhar Zaman, Jason Holder, Jason Roy, Kieron Pollard, Moeen Ali, Mohammad Nabi, Naseem Shah, Nicholas Pooran, Phil Salt, Rahmanullah Gurbaz, Romario Shepherd, Shakib Al Hasan, Sikandar Raza, Sunil Narine, Tim David, and Tim Southee all featuring in the competition.
