The International League T20 (ILT20) has rapidly established itself as one of the most competitive and exciting franchise-based T20 cricket leagues in the world. Hosted in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), the league blends global cricketing talent with world-class infrastructure, attracting star players from Australia, England, India, Pakistan, West Indies, South Africa, and beyond.
Since its inception in 2023, the tournament has delivered thrilling finals, high-scoring matches, and nail-biting finishes. In this comprehensive guide, we explore the ILT20 winners list, runners-up, final match summaries, venues, standout performers, and how the league has evolved from 2023 to 2025.
This article is your complete reference for the international league t20, covering everything fans and cricket analysts need to know.
Overview of the International League T20
The International League T20 is a professional franchise cricket league sanctioned by the Emirates Cricket Board (ECB). Unlike many domestic leagues, ILT20 allows each team to have a majority of overseas players, making it a truly international competition.
- Played in the T20 format
- Hosted in UAE
- Global player participation
- High broadcast reach
- Strong franchise backing
- Competitive league structure
With just six teams, the league maintains high quality and intensity throughout the season.
International League T20 Teams
As of the 2023–2025 seasons, the league consists of six franchises:
- Abu Dhabi Knight Riders (Abu Dhabi)
- Desert Vipers (Sharjah)
- Dubai Capitals (Dubai)
- Gulf Giants (Dubai)
- MI Emirates (Abu Dhabi)
- Sharjah Warriorz (Sharjah)
Each team is backed by established cricketing groups, ensuring professional management, star players, and experienced coaching staff.
ILT20 Winners List (2023-2025)
Below is a season-by-season breakdown of the international league t20 winners list, including runners-up and final match results.
| Season | Winner | Runners-Up | Result |
| 2023 | Gulf Giants | Desert Vipers | Won by 7 wickets |
| 2024 | MI Emirates | Dubai Capitals | Won by 45 runs |
| 2025 | Dubai Capitals | Desert Vipers | Won by 4 wickets |
| 2025–26 | Desert Vipers | MI Emirates | Won by 46 runs |
ILT20 2023 – Inaugural Season
Winner: Gulf Giants
Runners-Up: Desert Vipers
Final Venue: Dubai International Cricket Stadium
The inaugural season of the international league t20 set the tone for the competition. The final was a high-octane contest between Gulf Giants and Desert Vipers, two teams that dominated the league phase.
Final Match Summary – ILT20 2023
- Gulf Giants: 149/3 (18.4 overs)
- Desert Vipers: 146/8 (20 overs)
- Result: Gulf Giants won by 7 wickets
Chasing 147, Gulf Giants showcased composure and class, finishing the match with 8 balls to spare. Their balanced batting lineup and disciplined bowling unit proved decisive.
Player of the Series – 2023
- Chris Jordan (Gulf Giants)
Jordan’s all-round brilliance with the ball and in pressure situations earned him the Player of the Series award, making him one of the standout names in the international league t20 winners list.
ILT20 2024 – Rise of MI Emirates
Winner: MI Emirates
Runners-Up: Dubai Capitals
Final Venue: Dubai International Cricket Stadium
The 2024 season witnessed a dominant performance by MI Emirates, a franchise backed by the Mumbai Indians ownership group. Known for their structured approach and depth, MI Emirates peaked at the right time.
Final Match Summary – ILT20 2024
- MI Emirates: 208/3 (20 overs)
- Dubai Capitals: 163/7 (20 overs)
- Result: MI Emirates won by 45 runs
Batting first, MI Emirates posted one of the highest totals in ILT20 final history. Their aggressive powerplay and clean hitting put Dubai Capitals under pressure early, a gap they could never recover from.
Player of the Series – 2024
- Sikandar Raza (Dubai Capitals)
Despite finishing runners-up, Sikandar Raza’s consistency with bat and ball made him the standout performer of the season.
ILT20 2025 – Dubai Capitals Claim Glory
Winner: Dubai Capitals
Runners-Up: Desert Vipers
Final Venue: Dubai International Cricket Stadium
After falling short in the 2024 final, Dubai Capitals returned stronger and more determined in 2025. Their campaign was defined by resilience, adaptability, and tactical excellence.
Final Match Summary – ILT20 2025
- Dubai Capitals: 191/6 (19.2 overs)
- Desert Vipers: 189/5 (20 overs)
- Result: Dubai Capitals won by 4 wickets
This was arguably the most thrilling final in the international league t20 so far. A tense chase saw Dubai Capitals cross the line with just 4 balls remaining, sparking massive celebrations.
Player of the Series – 2025
- Sam Curran (Desert Vipers)
Curran’s all-round performances throughout the tournament made him indispensable, even though Desert Vipers finished runners-up.
ILT20 2025–26 – Desert Vipers Bounce Back
Winner: Desert Vipers
Runners-Up: MI Emirates
Final Venue: Dubai International Cricket Stadium
The 2025–26 season marked Desert Vipers’ redemption after multiple near-misses.
Final Match Summary – ILT20 2025–26
- Desert Vipers: 182/4 (20 overs)
- MI Emirates: 136 (18.3 overs)
- Result: Desert Vipers won by 46 runs
An emphatic victory showcased Desert Vipers’ bowling depth and tactical dominance in the final.
International League T20 Final Venues
The Dubai International Cricket Stadium has been the preferred venue for ILT20 finals due to:
- World-class facilities
- Large seating capacity
- Neutral conditions
- Excellent broadcast infrastructure
Its role has been pivotal in building the brand image of the international league t20.
Why International League T20 Is Growing Rapidly?
Several factors contribute to the league’s success:
Global Player Pool
The league attracts top international stars without national restrictions.
Strategic Franchise Ownership
Backed by IPL franchises and global sports groups.
Competitive Balance
Every season has produced a new winner, increasing fan interest.
Prime Broadcast Window
Played during a cricket-friendly calendar slot.
Impact of ILT20 on UAE Cricket
The international league t20 has significantly boosted cricket in the UAE:
- Improved grassroots development
- Increased fan engagement
- Better infrastructure utilization
- Enhanced global recognition
It has also positioned the UAE as a major destination for international cricket leagues.
Key Takeaways from ILT20 Winners List
- No repeat champions in the first three seasons
- Finals have been consistently competitive
- Desert Vipers reached multiple finals before winning
- Overseas players dominate Player of the Series awards
These trends highlight the league’s unpredictable and entertaining nature.
Final Thoughts
The International League T20 winners list from 2023 to 2025 reflects a league built on competitiveness, quality, and global appeal. Each season has delivered memorable finals, standout individual performances, and shifting power dynamics among franchises.
Whether you’re tracking champions, analyzing final summaries, or exploring the rise of franchise cricket in the UAE, the international league t20 continues to redefine modern T20 entertainment.
As future seasons unfold, one thing is certain—the ILT20 is here to stay, and its legacy is only just beginning.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the International League T20 (ILT20)?
The International League T20 is a professional franchise-based T20 cricket league organized by the Emirates Cricket Board (ECB). Played in the UAE, it features six teams with a strong presence of international cricketers, making it one of the most global T20 leagues in the world.
Where can I find the ILT20 winners list?
The complete ILT20 winners list includes:
- 2023: Gulf Giants
- 2024: MI Emirates
- 2025: Dubai Capitals
- 2025–26: Desert Vipers
This international league t20 winners list highlights the competitive nature of the tournament, with different champions each season.
Which team has won the most International League T20 titles?
As of now, no single team dominates the International League T20. Gulf Giants, MI Emirates, Dubai Capitals, and Desert Vipers have each won one title, showcasing the league’s balanced and competitive structure.
Where are International League T20 finals played?
Most International League T20 finals have been hosted at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, a premier venue known for its world-class facilities, neutral conditions, and large seating capacity.
Who are the top performers in International League T20 history?
Several players have made a strong impact in the international league t20, including:
- Chris Jordan (Player of the Series – 2023)
- Sikandar Raza (Player of the Series – 2024)
- Sam Curran (Player of the Series – 2025)
- Sam Curran (Player of the Series – 2025-26)
Their all-round performances have been crucial in defining ILT20 seasons.
Why is the International League T20 gaining popularity worldwide?
The international league t20 is growing rapidly due to its global player pool, strong franchise ownership, competitive matches, and strategic scheduling. Its ability to attract top international stars has helped it gain massive viewership and recognition worldwide.
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