Kuwait cricket marked a historic occasion with the successful hosting of the first-ever Player Draft for the DP World ILT20 Development Tournament – Kuwait Edition. The grand event saw four teams finalize their 15-member squads through a competitive and exciting draft sequence, paving the way for a tournament designed to elevate local talent to new heights.
The DP World ILT20 Development Tournament serves as a vital platform for Kuwait’s emerging cricketers to share the dressing room with international icons, learn from seasoned professionals, and showcase their abilities on a stage that could change the course of their careers. Selected players from this tournament will progress to the highly anticipated DP World ILT20 auctions in the UAE, offering them unprecedented exposure on a global cricketing stage.
The evening was hosted by Harman Singh Sahni, who welcomed guests and set the tone for a night filled with excitement and anticipation. The event also acknowledged the visionary leadership behind this initiative, including Kuwait Cricket President Mr. Haider Farman, a former Director of the Asian Games at the Olympic Council of Asia, and Kuwait Cricket Director General Mr. Sajid Ashraf, a former Kuwait national player dedicated to nurturing cricket talent in Kuwait. Gratitude was also expressed to Mr. Khalid Al Zarooni, Chairman of DP World ILT20 UAE, and Mr. Mubashir Usmani, Commissioner of DP World ILT20 UAE, whose support was instrumental in bringing this tournament to life.
Tournament Director Mr. Qasim Ali, National Teams Head Coach and Development Manager, shared his enthusiasm and plans for the event, while Deputy Tournament Director Mr. Naveen Jayan, Head of Match Officials and National Team Manager, will play a key role in managing the tournament’s execution.
The four competing teams, along with their head coaches, managers, captains, and vice-captains, were introduced during the ceremony and are set to begin their campaigns at the Sulaibiya Cricket Ground in early September.
With the draft complete and teams finalized, cricket fans across Kuwait and beyond eagerly await the DP World ILT20 Development Tournament – Kuwait Edition 2025, where local stars will vie for glory and the chance to step onto the international stage.
