Saudi Arabia enters cricket arena with ILT20 partnership
Saudi Cricket Federation teams up with UAE’s ILT20 to host matches, promote local talent, and advance Vision 2030 sports goals
RIYADH, Saudi Arabia (MNTV) — Saudi Arabia has made a major move into international cricket by forming a strategic partnership with the UAE-based International League T20 (ILT20), marking the Kingdom’s first official collaboration with a global cricket league.
The Saudi Arabian Cricket Federation (SACF) announced that ILT20 matches will soon be staged within the Kingdom, including both men’s and women’s games — a first for Saudi soil. The agreement also focuses on developing homegrown talent and expanding cricket’s reach across the Gulf region.
Under the deal, ILT20 will work closely with SACF and its commercial arm, the Cricket Investment Company (CIC), to promote the sport, build infrastructure, and engage Saudi youth. The partnership begins with the upcoming ILT20 season starting December 2.
According to an ILT20 statement, the SACF has officially licensed the league to host matches in Saudi Arabia in future seasons, calling it a “milestone for expanding and enriching cricket across the Gulf.” Each ILT20 franchise will now be required to include at least one Saudi player, providing a direct pathway for local athletes to enter the international T20 circuit.
Prince Saud bin Mishal Al-Saud, Chairman of SACF, said the collaboration “reflects our commitment to developing cricket in the country and creating international opportunities for our players.” He added that the move aligns with Saudi Vision 2030’s emphasis on sports, youth engagement, and private sector growth.
Khalid Al Zarooni, Chairman of ILT20, hailed the partnership as “a shared vision to grow cricket beyond borders,” while ILT20 CEO David White noted that it would help Saudi players train and compete alongside world-class athletes.
Plans are also underway to introduce a development tournament in Saudi Arabia next year, which will serve as a feeder for the main ILT20 competition.
The initiative underscores Saudi Arabia’s expanding ambitions in sports and entertainment as it diversifies its economy and global sporting profile.
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