NEW DELHI: The third season of the ILT20 concluded in thrilling fashion, with the Dubai Capitals emerging as champions after a gripping final against the Desert Vipers. While international superstars dominated the headlines, UAE’s homegrown talents made a lasting impact with standout performances throughout the tournament.
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Here are the top five UAE players who lit up the ILT20:
Muhammad Waseem (MI Emirates)
A powerhouse with the bat, Muhammad Waseem once again proved his class, securing the Blue Belt (Best UAE Player) for the third straight season. Representing MI Emirates, he smashed 183 runs in 10 matches at an impressive strike rate of 132.60. Nearly half of his runs came from sixes, as he hammered 13 maximums. Adding to his all-round contribution, Waseem also showcased his sharp fielding skills, taking six catches during the tournament.
Muhammad Rohid Khan (MI Emirates)
One of the tournament’s standout bowlers, Muhammad Rohid Khan delivered with the ball for MI Emirates, claiming 10 wickets in just five matches. He registered two crucial three-wicket hauls, including a match-winning spell against the Desert Vipers and another vital performance in the Eliminator against Sharjah Warriorz. His ability to strike in key moments made him a pivotal figure in MI Emirates’ campaign.
Aayan Afzal Khan (Gulf Giants)
Despite Gulf Giants missing out on the playoffs, young all-rounder Aayan Afzal Khan emerged as one of the tournament’s most effective spinners. He bagged 10 wickets in seven innings, with a stunning four-wicket haul for just 16 runs against Abu Dhabi Knight Riders—the best bowling figures by a UAE player in ILT20 history. His economy rate of 6.17 was among the best, matched only by Sunil Narine (Abu Dhabi Knight Riders), while Wanindu Hasaranga (Desert Vipers) had a slightly better rate.
Alishan Sharafu (Abu Dhabi Knight Riders)
A key player in Abu Dhabi Knight Riders’ middle order, Alishan Sharafu played with maturity and consistency. He finished as his team’s third-highest run-scorer, amassing 220 runs in nine innings at an average of 31.42. He began the tournament with a solid 46 against Desert Vipers, but his most impactful innings was a 55 off 38 balls in a commanding 42-run win over MI Emirates.
Khuzaima Tanveer (Desert Vipers)
Despite sharing the Desert Vipers’ bowling attack with international stars like Lockie Ferguson, Mohammad Amir, and Wanindu Hasaranga, Khuzaima Tanveer stood out with a match-winning four-wicket haul for 22 runs against Sharjah Warriorz. He also picked up two crucial wickets in Qualifier 2, proving his ability to deliver under pressure.
Special Mentions
Farhan Khan earned praise for his composure in crunch moments, especially when he defended 11 runs against Kieron Pollard in the season opener. Often entrusted with the new ball for Dubai Capitals, he cemented himself as a rising star. Zahoor Khan (MI Emirates) added depth to his team’s bowling attack, picking up five wickets and delivering key spells throughout the tournament.
With UAE’s local talent continuing to rise, ILT20 Season 3 was another strong testament to their growing presence on the global T20 stage.
