News DeskDubai, UAE – The second edition of the ILT20 Men’s Gulf Cricket Championship is set to take place at the ICC Academy in Dubai from December 13 to 21, 2024. The Emirates Cricket Board (ECB)-sanctioned tournament, sponsored by the ILT20 league, aims to bolster cricket’s growth in the Gulf region.
This year, six teams – UAE, Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Saudi Arabia, and Qatar – will compete in the single-league format, with the top two teams advancing to the grand finale. The final will be held on December 21 under floodlights at the Dubai International Stadium, beginning at 6:30 PM.
Defending Champions Oman Face Fierce Competition
Oman, the reigning champions who won the inaugural edition held in Qatar last year, will be keen to defend their title. They face strong contenders, including hosts UAE and other Gulf nations eager to make their mark.
Opening Day Clashes
The tournament kicks off with Bahrain taking on UAE at 9:00 AM, followed by a face-off between Kuwait and Saudi Arabia at 1:30 PM, both matches at the ICC Academy.
Tournament Highlights
- 16 Matches Over Nine Days: Cricket fans will witness intense action with 16 games spread over nine days.
- Prime-Time Final: The final on December 21 will be a prime-time spectacle at Dubai International Stadium.
- Diverse Matchups: The schedule features a range of exciting clashes, including UAE vs Oman and Qatar vs Saudi Arabia.
The ILT20 sponsorship underscores its commitment to supporting emerging cricketing talent in the region. Cricket enthusiasts can look forward to a thrilling tournament that promises to showcase the best of Gulf cricket.
Complete Schedule (Local Timings):
December 13: Bahrain vs UAE (9:00 AM), Kuwait vs Saudi Arabia (1:30 PM)
December 14: Kuwait vs Bahrain (9:00 AM), Qatar vs Oman (1:30 PM)
December 15: UAE vs Oman (9:00 AM), Saudi Arabia vs Qatar (1:30 PM)
December 16: Saudi Arabia vs Bahrain (9:00 AM), UAE vs Kuwait (1:30 PM)
December 17: Qatar vs Kuwait (9:00 AM), Oman vs Bahrain (1:30 PM)
December 18: Oman vs Saudi Arabia (9:00 AM), Qatar vs UAE (1:30 PM)
December 19: UAE vs Saudi Arabia (1:30 PM)
December 20: Qatar vs Bahrain (9:00 AM), Oman vs Kuwait (1:30 PM)
December 21: Final at Dubai International Stadium (6:30 PM)
This championship serves as a stepping stone for Gulf nations to elevate their cricketing standards and compete on the international stage.
