Saudi Arabia to Launch New Franchise T20 Cricket League in 2026
Saudi Arabia is preparing to enter the world of franchise cricket with the launch of the Dunes League T20, the country’s first major T20 cricket tournament.
The six-team competition is expected to begin later this year and marks another major step in Saudi Arabia’s growing investment in international sports.
The tournament has received approval from the Saudi Arabia Cricket Federation and is expected to feature a mix of retired international cricketers and active franchise players from around the world.
Saudi Arabia Expanding Sports Investments
Over the past few years, Saudi Arabia has significantly increased its presence in global sports by hosting major football, boxing, tennis, and golf events as part of its economic diversification plans.
The country previously supported the launch of LIV Golf through its Public Investment Fund and has also developed partnerships in international cricket through sponsorship agreements with the International Cricket Council (ICC).
Saudi Arabia also hosted the 2024 Indian Premier League (IPL) auction and has worked with the UAE-based International League T20.
Tournament Details
According to reports, the Dunes League T20 will be held in Taif, near Jeddah. The league is being developed in partnership with Sports Asian Network and talent agencies Unique Sports Group and Prolithic.
Former Indian cricketer Yuvraj Singh has been named as the league ambassador.
Reports suggest that each team may include up to four players from full-member cricket nations who have represented their countries within the last two years, keeping the tournament within ICC regulations.
Top players participating in the competition could reportedly earn salaries of up to $100,000.
Focus on Developing Cricket
Saudi officials say the new league is designed to help place the kingdom on the global cricket map while also supporting the development of local cricket talent.
Cricket’s popularity continues to grow in the Gulf region, with franchise leagues already operating successfully in countries such as the UAE. The launch of the Dunes League T20 could further increase the sport’s presence across the Middle East.
