In a landmark move aimed at accelerating the growth of cricket in Kuwait, the Kuwait Cricket Board has entered into a strategic partnership with the DP World International League T20 (ILT20). This collaboration is set to pave the way for greater opportunities for local players and enhance Kuwait’s presence on the international cricket stage.
The partnership was formalized at a signing ceremony held recently at the iconic Dubai International Stadium. Under the agreement, a domestic event modeled on the DP World ILT20 UAE Development Tournament will be held annually in Kuwait. This initiative will provide talented players from Kuwait a platform to showcase their skills and potentially secure selection by ILT20 franchises for the main tournament.
Looking ahead, the league also envisions hosting official DP World ILT20 matches in Kuwait in the coming years.
“We are proud to welcome the Kuwait Cricket Board as a strategic partner of the DP World ILT20,” said Khalid Al Zarooni, Chairman of ILT20 and Vice-Chairman of the Emirates Cricket Board. “This collaboration is a significant step forward, and we are excited about the opportunities it will create for the development of cricket in the region.”
Haider Farman, President of Kuwait Cricket, expressed his enthusiasm about the agreement, saying: “We are honoured to formalize this partnership with the Emirates Cricket Board to promote the DP World ILT20 not only in our two nations but across the region. This partnership is a vital component of the league’s broader vision for the growth and globalisation of the sport. Cricket can serve as a powerful bridge between nations, and we believe this collaboration will bring substantial benefits to our players, coaches, and officials.”
Mr. Farman also noted that it is a matter of great pride for Kuwait to become the first country globally to be officially recognised as a strategic partner of the DP World ILT20.
Cricket is witnessing rapid growth in Kuwait, and the Kuwait Cricket Board has made commendable progress both on and off the field. This partnership is expected to be instrumental in achieving the board’s long-term vision of increasing the participation of Kuwaiti nationals in the sport — particularly as players, coaches, and match officials.
Sajid Ashraf, Director General of Kuwait Cricket, described the collaboration as a historic milestone. “Partnering with the Emirates Cricket Board, a true leader in regional cricket development and the driving force behind the world-class DP World ILT20, is a dream come true. This opens new avenues for our players to pursue full-time professional careers in international franchise cricket,” he said.
This strategic alliance marks a significant step in the evolution of cricket in Kuwait and reinforces the sport’s expanding footprint in the Gulf region.