Aayal QureshiDubai: The third season of the DP World ILT20 is set to begin on January 11, and the Adani Sportsline-owned Gulf Giants are gearing up to make their mark once again. With a stellar track record, including clinching the title in the inaugural season and reaching the playoffs in the second, the Gulf Giants are poised to reclaim their crown this year.
The team, led by the dynamic duo of Head Coach Andy Flower and Captain James Vince, boasts a formidable lineup featuring both seasoned international stars and promising domestic talents. Key additions to the squad include Tim David, Tom Curran, Tymal Mills, and Adam Lyth, enhancing the team’s strength in all departments.
Local players Aayan Khan and Zuhaib Zubair, who shone in previous seasons, are joined by rising stars Saghir Khan and Uzair Khan. Saghir, a powerful middle-order batter, impressed with 193 runs at a strike rate of 235 in the ILT20 Development League, while Uzair, a left-arm pacer, claimed 15 wickets at an economy of 5.4.
Captain James Vince remains a pivotal figure, holding the title of the league’s top scorer with 795 runs in 23 matches. Supporting Vince is a power-packed batting lineup, including Afghanistan’s Ibrahim Zadran, explosive West Indian Shimron Hetmyer, and England’s Jordan Cox.
New signing Adam Lyth, with over 4,700 T20 runs, and Australian power-hitter Tim David, known for his phenomenal strike rate of 160+, add depth and firepower. On the bowling front, Chris Jordan, the league’s top wicket-taker with 31 scalps, leads a formidable attack alongside Tymal Mills and all-rounders like Tom Curran, Rehan Ahmed, and Dominic Drakes.
Head Coach Andy Flower expressed optimism ahead of the new season, stating, “We’re excited to get started with this exceptionally talented side. With a strong core of international and domestic players, we’ve built a team capable of competing at the highest level. We’re focused on taking it step-by-step and are looking forward to another competitive season.”
Pranav Adani, Managing Director – Agro, Oil & Gas, Adani Group, also shared his excitement: “We’re proud of the Gulf Giants’ journey and their commitment to excellence. This season’s bolstered squad reflects our dedication to nurturing talent and inspiring fans. We believe in the team’s potential to achieve great success in ILT20 Season 3.”
The Gulf Giants will kick off their campaign on January 12 against the Sharjah Warriorz at the Dubai International Stadium. Having defeated the Warriorz in both encounters last season, the Giants are determined to start their campaign with a commanding victory as they aim for another title-winning season.
Stay tuned as the Gulf Giants embark on their journey to glory in DP World ILT20 Season 3!
