DP World ILT20 stars excited for new season in UAE

Barely 72 hours before the start of the third season of the DP World ILT20 (January 11-February 9), cricket stars Tim Southee, Ben Dunks, Azam Khan, Tymal Mills, Joe Weatherly and Adam Hose arrived at the Khaleej Times office in Dubai on Wednesday to be part of the trophy tour and share their incredible stories in the game.

- Rituraj Borkakoty

The high-profile tournament, which has already become the second-most watched league in the world after the Indian Premier League (IPL), received a big boost last month when Sharjah Warriorz announced the signing of New Zealand legend Southee.

The legendary Kiwi pace bowler, who retired from international cricket last month with victory over England in the final Test of his career, was in great spirit on Wednesday as he looked ahead to the new ILT20 season.

"It was a nice way to finish my international career with a win for New Zealand and now I am really looking forward to this tournament. I am excited to be part of the ILT20," said the 36-year-old pace bowler who finished his international career with 776 wickers across the three formats of the game.

Southee is also going to lead Warriorz in his debut season at ILT20.

"It's an exciting challenge to lead the side. It's a very good team with a good mix of players from around the world," he said.

The tournament, which will also see the return of Australian legend David Warner for Dubai Capitals, is a great platform for UAE's local players to learn from the big stars.

"Of course, this tournament gives them a chance to grow and improve their game and learn from top international players," Southee said.

"I hope the local players will continue to learn and continue to ask questions about the game. I hope they enjoy their game and continue to find ways to become better cricketers."