In a major step for cricket development in the Gulf, Kuwait Cricket Board has entered a landmark partnership with the DP World International League T20 (ILT20), marking the first time a country has been formally recognised as a strategic partner of the franchise league. The agreement was signed at Dubai International Stadium in a ceremony attended by senior officials from both sides.
The partnership will see domestic cricket tournaments held annually in Kuwait, mirroring the UAE’s ILT20 Development Tournament, to identify and groom local talent for potential selection by ILT20 franchises. There are also plans to host official ILT20 matches in Kuwait in the near future.
Khalid Al Zarooni, Chairman of ILT20 and Vice-Chairman of the Emirates Cricket Board, said:
“Kuwait is a vital part of the cricket-loving Gulf community. Our shared goal is to provide opportunities to players and bring the game closer to fans across the region.”
Haider Farman, President of Kuwait Cricket, hailed the agreement as a game-changer for the sport’s growth in Kuwait:
“This partnership lays the foundation for more Kuwaiti nationals to engage in cricket, both on and off the field. It is also a chance to strengthen ties between nations through sport.”
The collaboration supports the broader regional ambition to raise cricket’s profile ahead of major events like the Asian Games in Qatar (2030) and Saudi Arabia (2034).
David White, CEO of DP World ILT20, noted the transformative power of the league in shaping talent:
“UAE players have gained tremendous exposure through ILT20, and Kuwait’s young players now have access to the same platform.”
Sajid Ashraf, Director General of Kuwait Cricket, added that the partnership would also benefit Kuwait’s business community:
“It gives corporate houses in Kuwait an exciting entry into regional sports sponsorship, connecting them with a passionate cricket audience.”
The fourth season of the DP World ILT20 will begin on 2 December 2025 (UAE National Day) and conclude on 4 January 2026, featuring six teams and 34 matches. With Kuwait now in the fold, the league is poised to play a defining role in the growth of cricket across the Gulf region.
