ILT20 2026 Schedule Announced for Season Five

The ILT20 schedule for season five has been officially confirmed, with the UAE-based tournament set to begin on November 22 and conclude on December 20.

The fifth edition will feature 34 matches, including 30 league-stage fixtures and four playoff games, played across Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Sharjah.

Tournament window adjusted again

The ILT20 has once again shifted its window, moving earlier in the calendar compared to previous editions.

After previously transitioning from a January-February slot to December-January, the tournament will now take place entirely between November and December. The adjustment has been made to avoid clashes with other major franchise leagues, including SA20, which is scheduled to begin after January 10 next year.

Dubai to host final again

Dubai will continue to serve as the venue for the final, maintaining a consistent tradition from the first four seasons.

Matches throughout the tournament will be distributed across the UAE’s three primary cricket venues — Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Sharjah — ensuring a balanced schedule across the region.

Franchises and auction plans

All six franchises will return for the upcoming season: Desert Vipers, Gulf Giants, MI Emirates, Dubai Capitals, Sharjah Warriorz and Abu Dhabi Knight Riders.

An auction will be held ahead of the tournament to finalise squads for each team.

Among the competing sides, Desert Vipers, Gulf Giants, MI Emirates and Dubai Capitals have previously lifted the ILT20 title.

League growth and partnerships

ILT20 chief executive David White highlighted the league’s continued growth following a successful fourth season.

“We are delighted with Season 4’s success,” White said. “The broadcast numbers, spectators’ interest and participation of the biggest T20 stars made the tournament a massive success as the quality of the league grew further.”

He also noted the impact of strategic partnerships with the Saudi Arabia Cricket Federation and Kuwait Cricket, with development tournaments planned in both countries ahead of the new season.

“We are already gearing up for this year’s auction,” White added.

What this means

The revised schedule reflects the growing competition between global T20 leagues, with ILT20 positioning itself to maximise player availability and viewership. With an earlier window and continued expansion efforts, the league is set to build further momentum heading into its fifth season.

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