Saudi Arabia has ventured into mainstream cricket for the first time, after the kingdom announced a strategic partnership with the International League T20 (ILT20), in which all six participating teams in the event will have to absorb at least one player from the oil-rich nation.

Under the partnership, the Saudi Arabian Cricket Federation (SACF) has commissioned and licensed the DP World ILT20 – which is now approved by the Emirates Cricket Board – as an official T20 league (men and women) to host matches within Saudi Arabia in its forthcoming seasons.

The league will provide Saudi Arabian players a direct platform to enter into the DP World ILT20.

“The tournament auction will go live on Wednesday in the Saudi Capital, in which each franchise will have to secure at least one player from the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia,” read a statement from ILT20.

Also Read: Eclipsed by hostilities, it’s anything but cricket

In the forthcoming years, ILT20 matches will also be played in Saudi Arabia, which hosted a cricket festival earlier this month, “to create a new ecosystem” for the sport in the country.

The ILT20 has previously featured reputed former players like Dwayne Bravo, Jonathan Trott and David Warner, among others.

“We are proud to announce a partnership with the Saudi Arabian Cricket Federation. Saudi Arabia is a key part of the Gulf region, and its commitment to developing cricket is inspiring,” said Chairman, Khalid Al Zarooni.

Chairman of the Saudi Arabia Cricket Federation (SACF), Prince Saud Bin Mishal Al-Saud, said the partnership is a reflection of his commitment to developing cricket in his country.

“It also provides a platform for fan engagement within the Kingdom and opens up further avenues for developing the game across infrastructure and tourism…,” he added.

The ILT20 season 4 will begin on December 2 and will feature 34 matches, concluding with the final on January 4, 2026.