By Zainab Shafiq 
The International League T20 (ILT20) Season 4 is set to kick off on December 2, 2025, and will run until January 6, 2026. With the stage set for another thrilling edition, all six franchises have unveiled their list of retained players and new signings, adding exciting depth and talent to their squads ahead of ILT20 2026. While defending champions Dubai Capitals are looking to bolster their bowling firepower, other teams like Abu Dhabi Knight Riders and Gulf Giants have strengthened their batting and all-round options.
Here’s a comprehensive breakdown of what to expect from each team in ILT20 Season 4.
Dubai Capitals Focus on Bowling Depth
The reigning champions Dubai Capitals have made smart moves to reinforce their bowling unit. Their new signings include Waqar Salamkheil, the Afghan wrist-spinner who shifts from MI Emirates, Luke Wood, an experienced English seamer from Desert Vipers, and Muhammad Jawadullah, a promising left-arm pacer formerly with Sharjah Warriorz. These additions complement their retained core of Dasun Shanaka, Dushmantha Chameera, Gulbadin Naib, Rovman Powell, and Shai Hope.
Abu Dhabi Knight Riders Add Firepower at the Top
The Abu Dhabi Knight Riders have placed their focus on aggressive top-order batting. They’ve signed Alex Hales and Sherfane Rutherford from Desert Vipers, along with Liam Livingstone from Sharjah Warriorz. Their retained list features global T20 stars such as Andre Russell, Sunil Narine, and Phil Salt, making them a balanced and dangerous side in the competition.
Desert Vipers Retain Core, Bring In Gous
Two-time finalists Desert Vipers have opted for squad consistency, retaining key players including Wanindu Hasaranga, Lockie Ferguson, and Sam Curran. They’ve also added Andries Gous, a hard-hitting opener from Abu Dhabi Knight Riders, to solidify their top-order options.
Gulf Giants Sign World No.1 All-Rounder
Winners of the inaugural ILT20, the Gulf Giants have secured some marquee signings. Azmatullah Omarzai, the world’s top-ranked ODI all-rounder, headlines their new picks, joined by Moeen Ali from Sharjah Warriorz and Afghanistan’s explosive opener Rahmanullah Gurbaz, who has now played for four ILT20 teams in four seasons. Their retained squad includes James Vince, Mark Adair, and young UAE star Aayan Afzal Khan.
MI Emirates Add Balance with Woakes, Mendis
Looking to improve their versatility, MI Emirates have brought in England’s Chris Woakes and Sri Lanka’s Kamindu Mendis. They’ve retained big-hitting players like Romario Shepherd, Tom Banton, and Kusal Perera, ensuring a strong blend of youth and experience.
Sharjah Warriorz Overhaul Squad With Power Signings
The Sharjah Warriorz have revamped their squad with some powerful additions. They’ve signed Sikandar Raza from Dubai Capitals, Maheesh Theekshana, who returns after a break, and Tim David, one of Australia’s most feared T20 hitters. USA’s Saurabh Netravalkar also joins to provide left-arm pace. With Tim Southee and Kusal Mendis retained, Sharjah are shaping up to be a competitive force.
ILT20 26 Squads: Retained Players and New Signings
| Team | Retained Players | New Signings |
|---|---|---|
| Abu Dhabi Knight Riders | Alishan Sharafu, Andre Russell, Charith Asalanka, Phil Salt, Sunil Narine | Alex Hales, Liam Livingstone, Sherfane Rutherford |
| Desert Vipers | Dan Lawrence, David Payne, Khuzaima Bin Tanveer, Lockie Ferguson, Max Holden, Sam Curran, Wanindu Hasaranga | Andries Gous |
| Dubai Capitals | Dasun Shanaka, Dushmantha Chameera, Gulbadin Naib, Rovman Powell, Shai Hope | Waqar Salamkheil, Luke Wood, Muhammad Jawadullah |
| Gulf Giants | Aayan Afzal Khan, Blessing Muzarabani, Gerhard Erasmus, James Vince, Mark Adair | Azmatullah Omarzai, Moeen Ali, Rahmanullah Gurbaz |
| MI Emirates | AM Ghazanfar, Fazalhaq Farooqi, Kusal Perera, Romario Shepherd, Tom Banton, Muhammad Waseem | Chris Woakes, Kamindu Mendis |
| Sharjah Warriorz | Johnson Charles, Kusal Mendis, Tim Southee, Tom Kohler-Cadmore | Sikandar Raza, Maheesh Theekshana, Tim David, Saurabh Netravalkar |
What’s Next?
With the tournament beginning on December 2, teams will now begin preparation camps and finalise their overseas line-ups. The final will be held on January 6, wrapping up what promises to be another electric season of franchise T20 cricket in the UAE.
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