ILT20 Season 5 Schedule Revealed: Tournament Moved to November Window to Avoid Global League Clash

The fifth edition of the International League T20 (ILT20) will be held from November 22 to December 20, with matches scheduled across Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Sharjah. Tournament organisers confirmed that the competition will follow its usual format, featuring 34 matches including a league phase and playoffs.

The final of ILT20 Season 5 will once again take place in Dubai, continuing the pattern from previous editions. The revised window places the tournament earlier in the calendar, moving it away from its earlier December-January slot.

Schedule Shift and League Expansion Strategy

League officials said the adjustment was made to avoid overlap with other franchise competitions, including the SA20, which is expected to begin in January. The move is part of a broader effort to secure player availability and maintain scheduling clarity across global T20 leagues.

David White, the league’s chief executive, said the previous season had seen strong engagement across broadcast and in-stadium audiences.

"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.

"The aILT20 continues to make massive strides and our strategic partnerships with Saudi Arabia Cricket Federation and 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."

Teams and Auction Plans

Preparations for the upcoming edition will include a player auction involving all six franchises. Defending champions Desert Vipers will return alongside Gulf Giants, MI Emirates, Dubai Capitals, Sharjah Warriorz and Abu Dhabi Knight Riders.

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

Among the competing teams, Desert Vipers, Gulf Giants, MI Emirates and Dubai Capitals have previously won the tournament, underlining the competitive spread across the league.