The Sri Lankan cricket board on Thursday granted its players the permission to play in the upcoming UAE T20x, a newly launched T20 franchise league.
With this decision, Sri Lanka Cricket joins other full member nations including England, West-Indies, South Africa, New Zealand, Zimbabwe, Afghanistan and Ireland along with 16 associate members; all of which have allowed its players to participate in the UAE T20x.
Sri Lanka Cricket’s decision is another stamp of approval for the inaugural league which promises to bring together a host of international stars to strut their wares in front of cricket fans in the UAE.
Fans in the UAE will now get a chance to watch Sri Lankan stars such as Lasith Malinga, TM Dilshan, Ajantha Mendis, Angelo Mathews, Upul Tharanga, Thisara Perera, Rangana Herath, Dushmantha Chameera, Jeffrey Vandersay, Jeevan Mendis, Dilshan Munaweera, Angelo Perera, Lakshan Sandakan who have all signed up to be a part of the exciting league.
Sri Lankan cricketing veteran and the league’s icon player Kumar Sangakkara welcomed the decision and said: “I am delighted that the Sri Lankan cricket board has granted its players the permission and encouragement to participate in what promises to be an incredible tournament.”
Sangakkara has welcomed Sri Lanka Cricket’s decision.
“This displays that Sri Lanka cricket understands the benefits that the UAE T20x can bring to the sport in our country, with youngsters learning and playing with the best names in international cricket. It is also a great chance for the world to watch some exciting Sri Lankan cricketers and legendary coaches”
Salman Sarwar Butt, CEO of UAE T20x said: “Sri Lanka Cricket’s support towards the UAE T20x means that yet another full member nation has recognised the importance of the league. It is indeed great to see such support from the global cricket community.”
“The UAE T20x constantly strives to enhance diversity and seeks to attract fans and partners from all over the world. Considering this, it is very promising to know that we now have 24 cricket boards understanding the value of our league, which aims to nurture domestic talent and grow the game globally”.
UAE T20x will take place from 19 December to 11 January in Dubai and Sharjah with five new franchise teams vying for the inaugural title in a 22-match format to be played over 24 days.
