Season 5 of the International League T20 (ILT20), the Gulf region's largest cricket league, is set to commence on Sunday, November 22, 2026, in the United Arab Emirates.
The tournament features six teams competing in 34 matches, culminating in the final on Sunday, December 20, at the Dubai International Stadium, according to a press release.
The league transitioned to a December schedule in Season 4, following three seasons held in January and February. Season 4 was noted for increased broadcast figures and higher spectator attendance. The final on January 4, 2026, was held before a full-capacity crowd at the Dubai International Stadium, where the Desert Vipers secured their first title with a 46-run victory over MI Emirates.
David White, CEO of ILT20, 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, 22 November to Sunday, 20 December 2026. We are delighted with Season 4’s success. The broadcast numbers, spectators’ interest and the participation of the biggest T20 stars made the tournament a remarkable success as the quality of the league grew further.”
He added: “The ILT20 continues to make massive strides, and our strategic partnerships with the Saudi Arabia Cricket Federation and the Kuwait Cricket are already making a big impact. This year, these partnerships will be consolidated further through our development tournaments, which will be played in both countries prior to Season 5.”
White also noted: “The ILT20 Season 4 Player Auction was a great success as well, and we are already gearing up for this year’s auction. There are a number of exciting announcements and initiatives that will be revealed in the coming days.”
Season 4 of the DP World ILT20 featured prominent T20 cricketers, including Sam Curran of the Desert Vipers, who was named Player of the Tournament and received the Best Batter award (Red and Green Belts); Waqar Salamkheil of MI Emirates, awarded Best Bowler and White Belt winner; and Muhammad Waseem, who was recognised as Best UAE Player and Blue Belt winner.
The squads also included well-known players such as 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.