09.09.2025 13:29
Jonathan Trott: UAE on Verge of Breakthrough with ILT20 Boost…
Jonathan Trott, the new head coach of the Gulf Giants, has emphasized the importance of ILT20 (International League Twenty20) and its Development Tournament for the future development of cricket in United Arab Emirates (UAE). Trott made these remarks at the recently concluded Development Tournament, where the Gulf Giants’ side made it to the semi-finals. He highlighted the league’s role in discovering and developing new talent and raising the standards of the sport in the region.
Trott, a former England batter, has followed the ILT20 closely since its inception. He pointed out its crucial role in providing a platform for local cricketers, given that two UAE players are required in every playing XI. Trott believes that these opportunities for local players can help improve the quality of the national team.
He compared the impact of ILT20 on UAE cricket to the positive influence of franchise cricket on Afghanistan’s national team. According to Trott, exposure to international stars and renowned coaches can significantly improve the skills of national players both on and off the field. Trott is excited to contribute to this developmental process through his association with the Gulf Giants.
In light of the UAE qualifying for the Asia Cup for the first time in a decade, Trott opined that the ILT20 has already shown its impact. He expressed his confidence in the country’s potential to make significant strides on the international cricket scene, considering the quality of players, facilities, and sheer passion for the game prevalent in the UAE.
As for the upcoming ILT20 Season 4, Trott expressed his optimism for the Gulf Giants, the winners of the inaugural season, to bounce back after missing last year’s playoffs. He is looking forward to the competition and believes that the team can strengthen further with the player auction scheduled for the end of September.