Dubai: ZEE Entertainment Enterprises Limited (ZEEL), the official broadcaster of the DP World International League T20 (ILT20), has announced an illustrious line-up of commentators for the highly anticipated third season. Featuring cricketing legends and experienced broadcasters, the panel is set to enhance the viewing experience for millions of fans around the globe.
The commentary team boasts icons like Virender Sehwag, Wasim Akram, Waqar Younis, Shoaib Akhtar, Harbhajan Singh, Ian Bishop, Ian Smith, Simon Doull, and Alan Wilkins. Joining them are former Indian captain Anjum Chopra, along with Reema Malhotra and Urooj Mumtaz, offering diverse insights from a female perspective. Saba Karim, Rohan Gavaskar, Nikhil Chopra, Daren Ganga, and Ajay Mehra add further depth to the Hindi and English broadcasts.
Speaking on his involvement, legendary pacer Wasim Akram said, “I am ecstatic to return for my third season with the DP World ILT20. This region has seen so many memorable moments in cricket, many of which have been highlights of my career. The DP World ILT20 with its mix of international stars and upcoming local cricketers will surely add to this legacy.”
Former Indian opener Virender Sehwag expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “I love the carnival like atmosphere at the DP World ILT20, it is like a home away from home for me. The DP World ILT20 is always very competitive because of the quality of cricketers and the venues, and I urge fans from all over the world to tune in and catch some of the finest cricket around.”
Ian Bishop remarked, “It has been special to watch the growth of cricket in the region over the years. The DP World ILT20 is a vital part of nourishing home-grown talent and giving them the right exposure under the right conditions. I am thrilled to return for the third season.”
Reflecting on the league, Ian Smith said, “The DP World ILT20 has rapidly built a reputation as a stage for exceptional cricket, and I’m excited to be part of the action. While the international stars will undoubtedly shine, I’m most eager to see how the emerging players from the UAE seize this opportunity.”
The tournament kicks off on January 11, 2025, with a grand opening ceremony at the Dubai International Stadium. Bollywood stars Shahid Kapoor, Pooja Hegde, and Sonam Bajwa will perform, with Jackky Bhagnani and Ridhima Pathak hosting the event. The opening clash will see defending champions MI Emirates face off against hosts Dubai Capitals in a rematch of last year’s finale.
The league’s global reach will be supported by ZEE’s 15 linear TV channels and the OTT platform ZEE5 across India, with Dubai TV, Abu Dhabi TV, and the official ILT20 YouTube channel broadcasting in the MENA region.
With a mix of global T20 superstars and emerging local talent, the DP World ILT20 continues to grow in stature as a premier cricketing event.
Ashish Sehgal, Chief Growth Officer – Digital & Broadcast Revenue, ZEE Entertainment, commented, “We are thrilled to unveil our distinguished commentator panel for DP World ILT20 Season 3. The expertise and unique perspectives of our esteemed commentators will elevate the excitement surrounding this premier cricketing event. With the rising stature and global appeal of the league, we are excited to bring this cricketing spectacle for the audience across the world.”
The tournament will run until February 9, 2025, showcasing some of the best cricketing talent from around the world, including stars like David Warner, Andre Russell, Sunil Narine, and Tim Southee, among others.
Tickets for the matches and the full schedule are now available online. Fans are encouraged to tune in for an unforgettable cricketing spectacle.
