‘The window we have locked in’ – Secretary General of Emirates Cricket Board opens up on the competition of ILT20 with SA20

The International League T20 has been an exhilarating affair so far as fans have got to see some breathtaking cricketing action in the first week of the competition. Mubashir Usmani, the secretary general of the Emirates Cricket Board, is optimistic about the present and the future of the League, being played in the UAE.

He recently opened up on the first impression of the event, competitions from SA20 and the impact this could have on the UAE national side in a conversation with Cricbuzz.

Talking about choosing the window of January and February to organise the league, he said that it was chosen as the UAE has optimal playing conditions during these two months.

“While it is true that this window is packed with a lot of T20 franchises as well as all-format bilateral cricket we are very confident of creating our own impression both for fans at the three world-class venues, as well as those who will watch the tournament around the world,” Usmani said.

“The window we have locked-in for, being January 13th to February 12th (2023) is optimal playing conditions in the UAE, and while this window suits our purpose, we will, through our strategy committee and partners, assess and work toward minimising other League-date clashes,” he added.

Speaking on how the league will help the development of cricket in UAE, he said that UAE is already performing well in world tournaments. The league will help the domestic players to learn from several big names in international cricket which will help them develop their skillsets.

“This will be a continual development strategy. It is important to recognise that Emirates Cricket already enjoys successful International UAE Cricket performances – our men have competed in a number of, including the recent, T20 WC – Karthik Meiyappan who is a member of the Sharjah Warriors player set-up was the first player to achieve a hattrick, and our U19 women are currently competing in the first-ever U19 Women’s T20 WC and won their opening match against Scotland,” Usmani said.

The league will elevate skills of local players: Mubashir Usmani

“The base is there, exposing our men’s players to some of the best resources and minds in the cricketing world will definitely elevate their skills, and through commitment from the league, funds will be used to support central contracts for the UAE women’s team as well as pick the cost of full time women development officer,” he added.

Sharing on thoughts on having high profile owners such as SRK, Adani, Ambani and Glazers and their first impression during the first week of the league, Mubashir Usmani said owners of the league’s franchise teams are also actively involved in planning strategies.

“Owners of the league’s franchise teams are also actively involved in the league’s pro-active strategy and planning committee discussions, and they are very comfortable with how the league launched and with the delivery and the coverage – broadcast and media – of the first two games,” he said.