In a historic move, the International League T20 (ILT20) has achieved a remarkable milestone by becoming the first Associate-run franchise league to attain ‘official’ List-A status. This elevation to List-A status signifies that all statistics from the tournament will now carry official recognition, marking a significant leap for ILT20 just ahead of its second season.
Despite having only conducted one edition so far, ILT20 has swiftly earned its place among the major and lucrative T20 leagues globally. The official List-A status, granted just before the upcoming season, has been hailed as a “major boost” and a “major milestone” by the league authorities. David White, the chief executive of ILT20, expressed gratitude to the ICC for the acknowledgment, emphasizing that the recognition reinforces the league’s strength and stature on the global cricketing stage.
The second season of ILT20 is scheduled to take place from January 19 to February 17, setting the stage for a riveting clash with other prominent leagues like SA20, BPL, BBL, and New Zealand Super Smash. The league boasts an impressive lineup of international cricketing stars, including David Warner, Andre Russell, Sunil Narine, Rahmanullah Gurbaz, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Alex Hales, and more.
Distributed across six teams, ILT20 is not only a testament to the growing popularity of franchise cricket but also a melting pot of talent from diverse cricketing backgrounds. Notably, three teams – Abu Dhabi Knight Riders, Dubai Capitals, and MI Emirates – are owned by groups that also have stakes in the Indian Premier League (IPL), further elevating ILT20’s global standing.
In the inaugural edition, Gulf Giants, captained by James Vince, clinched the championship by defeating Desert Vipers in a thrilling final. As ILT20 gears up for its second season, the official List-A status adds an extra layer of prestige, ensuring that every run, wicket, and performance contributes to the players’ overall T20 statistics. The cricketing world eagerly awaits the clash of titans and emerging talents in what promises to be another thrilling chapter of ILT20.
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