In a significant development for the sport, Saudi Arabia has made its official entry into mainstream cricket by signing a 15-year strategic agreement with the International League T20 (ILT20). The agreement is intended to develop Saudi cricket within the international framework, with plans to host league matches in the Kingdom and introduce a Saudi-based franchise in a future season.

As part of this agreement, the Saudi Arabian Cricket Federation (SACF) has sanctioned and licensed the DP World ILT20, sanctioned by the Emirates Cricket Board, as an official T20 league for men and women to play matches in Saudi Arabia in future seasons. The agreement will also provide that all six ILT20 franchises include at least one Saudi player in their squads from Season 4 onwards, which will take place from December 2, 2025, until January 4, 2026.

In a statement, the ILT20 stated this will create a direct pathway for Saudi players to participate in the league, getting exposure and experience playing alongside international stars. Over the years, ILT20 has featured some of the most recognizable names in cricket, including David Warner, Dwayne Bravo, and Jonathan Trott.

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ILT20 Chairman Khalid Al Zarooni expressed his enthusiasm, saying, "We are very proud to announce our partnership with the Saudi Arabian Cricket Federation. Saudi Arabia is an important part of the Gulf region, and to see its ambition to develop cricket is fantastic." 

Prince Saud Bin Mishal Al-Saud, Chair of the SACF, said that the agreement of a partnership demonstrates Saudi Arabia's commitment to developing cricket players as well as advancing its wider sports agenda. "It also allows for an ongoing convergence of fan engagement and provides a new commercial pathway to develop the game with both infrastructure and tourism," he communicated. 

This agreement demonstrates Saudi Arabia's significant progress in becoming a regional cricketing superpower and continuing to diversify its sports ecosystem as part of Vision 2030.