Desert Vipers to Exit UAE's ILT20 Before 2026 Season
The defending champions have informed organizers of their intention to leave the league over financial and business model disagreements.
The Desert Vipers, two-time ILT20 champions, have decided to exit the UAE's International League T20 before the 2026 season. Franchise owners conveyed their decision to tournament organizers, citing unresolved differences over franchise fees and the league's business model. The team is owned by American businessman Avram Glazer.
Paul Voigt, a Glazer associate, wrote to ILT20 officials about the planned departure. This follows earlier disagreements between the franchise and organizers that were previously resolved. The Emirates Cricket Board now faces the task of finding a sixth team to replace the Vipers for the 2026 season, which starts November 22.
The ECB's strong ties with Saudi Arabia and Kuwait cricket boards may help secure a new franchise quickly. The Desert Vipers have been a dominant force, reaching the final in three of four ILT20 seasons and winning the title in 2024. The team had already assembled players and coaching staff for the upcoming campaign.