(Sports Correspondent: Imran Sohail)
ILT20 Season 4: Initial Squads Announced, Pakistani Players Missing — For Now
The International League T20 (ILT20) has revealed the first list of retained and newly signed players for its upcoming fourth season. All six participating franchises have announced their initial squads, but a notable observation is the absence of Pakistani cricketers at this stage.
Among the teams is Desert Vipers, which previously featured a number of Pakistani stars. However, in the first wave of player announcements, no Pakistani players were included. Speaking on the matter, Tom Moody, Director of Cricket for the Desert Vipers, clarified that Pakistani players remain an important part of the franchise’s long-term vision.
“With only eight retention slots available, it was challenging to keep everyone,” Moody explained. “We’ve built a strong core over the past three seasons, and continuity is important. That said, we highly value our relationship with Pakistani cricketers and continue to recognize their exceptional talent.”
The ILT20, hosted in the United Arab Emirates, has grown into one of the premier T20 leagues outside of India and Australia. Season 4 is already generating buzz, with high-profile names like Andre Russell, Sunil Narine, Sam Curran, Moeen Ali, and Wanindu Hasaranga confirmed to participate. Additionally, players such as Luke Wood, Waqar Salamkheil, and Chris Woakes have found spots in the upcoming season.
Despite Pakistan’s reputation for producing top T20 talent, including the likes of Shaheen Afridi, Shadab Khan, Fakhar Zaman, and Mohammad Amir, none have been included in the initial squad lists. This development has sparked interest and speculation, though it’s likely not the final word on the matter.
A player auction is scheduled for September, where teams will have the opportunity to strengthen their squads. Pakistani players could still be in contention, depending on draft entries and team strategies.
With the ILT20 moving to a December–January window, availability may improve for Pakistan players, especially those not currently engaged in Australia’s Big Bash League (BBL). This shift could open the door for several prominent names to return to the ILT20 spotlight.
For now, fans eagerly await the auction and final squad announcements, hopeful that Pakistani cricketers will once again make their mark in one of T20 cricket’s rapidly growing competitions.
