It wasn’t exactly a spectacle, but ILT20’s stakeholders (players, franchisees, sponsors, broadcasters, etc.) are happy with the development so far. Almost a week after the first edition, participants say the UAE couldn’t have been a better event for gaming’s growth in this part of the world.
“The visuals may not be as great, but all the franchises are happy with their business model and their organization. It’s the only tournament where owners don’t suffer losses at the same time like other leagues.” , said Venky Mysore, CEO of Abu Dhabi Knight Riders, part of the Knight Riders brand, which has a presence in various T20 leagues.
The lack of large attendees from India, Pakistan and Bangladesh kept the crowds at bay, but organizers and broadcasters are confident in their product. “The tournament went very well at home in India. There were 1.5 million concurrent viewers for the opening ceremony which featured many international stars. Bollywood star Shah Rukh Khan, owner of Knight Riders was a big hit,” said an official from Zee TV, the league’s broadcaster.
Emirates Cricket’s Mubasil Usmani says the fun is yet to come. “Competition has intensified as teams look to top the league table, driving viewers domestically through top-quality production and broadcasts of an absolute feast of thrilling cricket action to take home. Bring it outside.”
Above all, the tournament is seen as a coveted initiative for UAE players looking for something unheard of in world cricket to get their money’s worth. In the league’s second match, UAE batsman Muhammad Waseem of MI Emirates emerged as the man of the match. In the third game, local bowler Sanchit Sharma claimed honor for the Adani-owned Gulf Giants.
“This is a unique league with teams participating in franchise cricket for the first time. Based in the United Arab Emirates where a lot of cricket is played here including ICC, Asia and Pakistan events. , and there is a huge cricket community here. You just have to grow,” says Tom Moody, Desert Vipers Team Leader.
Sharjah Warriors team his director R. Sridhar added:
“It has an amazing effect on UAE talent. I think it was an eye opener for them to meet and play against proven players in this format. I see a professional culture in the dressing room that certainly inspires ethics.”
An official with the Emirates Cricket Board said the league’s funds will be used to develop the game and players domestically. But they have bigger goals. After hosting several global events, the ECB has state-of-the-art infrastructure and hopes to become a full member of the ICC. However, there is a rule that even associate members cannot become regular members unless they play regularly. But full members have little time for their peers.