Former West Indies captain and respected commentator Daren Ganga has highlighted the transformative impact of the International League T20 (ILT20) on cricket in the United Arab Emirates. Ganga, who is part of the commentary panel for the ongoing second season, believes the league has been instrumental in elevating local UAE players from supporting roles to becoming central figures who can decide the outcome of matches.
From Supporting Cast to Center Stage
In an exclusive conversation, Ganga emphasized the significant leap in quality and confidence among the UAE's domestic cricketers. "Some of the UAE players have become mainstream match-winners," Ganga stated, pointing out that this evolution is the most crucial metric for the league's success in developing local talent. He observed that these players are no longer just filling spots but are now pivotal to their teams' strategies and victories.
Ganga specifically mentioned the performances of players like Muhammad Waseem, the dynamic opener for the MI Emirates franchise. He praised Waseem's aggressive batting at the top of the order, noting that it sets a powerful tone for the innings. Another standout performer he highlighted was Zahoor Khan, the seasoned pacer for the Dubai Capitals, whose experience and skill in the death overs have proven invaluable.
A Crucible for High-Pressure Experience
The former cricketer explained that the true value of the ILT20 for UAE nationals lies in the high-pressure environment it creates. Sharing the dressing room and competing on the field with international superstars provides an unparalleled learning experience. "When you have the likes of [David] Warner, [Andre] Russell, [Sunil] Narine, and [Kieron] Pollard around, the learning is immense," Ganga remarked.
This daily interaction and competition force the local players to elevate their game, learn advanced tactics, and develop the mental fortitude required at the highest level. Ganga believes this exposure is accelerating their development far more quickly than traditional domestic circuits could.
Building a Sustainable Cricket Ecosystem
Beyond individual growth, Daren Ganga sees the ILT20 as a cornerstone for building a robust, sustainable cricket ecosystem in the UAE. The league generates widespread interest and provides a clear, lucrative pathway for aspiring Emirati cricketers. The visibility and financial incentives make cricket a more viable professional career choice, which in turn strengthens the grassroots foundation of the sport in the country.
The second season of the ILT20 began on January 19, 2024, and is set to conclude with the final on February 17. Ganga's analysis suggests that the tournament is successfully achieving one of its core objectives: not just being a global T20 spectacle, but a genuine catalyst for permanent growth in Associate cricket nations. The emergence of confident, match-winning local stars is a testament to the league's positive impact on UAE cricket's future.
