Pakistan’s young spinner Sufiyan Muqeem has joined the Abu Dhabi Knight Riders for the upcoming DP World International League T20 (ILT20) 2025. The 19-year-old, who has been making headlines since his debut for Pakistan, is set to bring his talent and flair to the UAE’s premier T20 franchise competition.
Sufiyan Muqeem joining the Knight Riders will help to improve their fortunes in the third season of the ILT20. Known for his sharp turn and ability to outfox batters, Muqeem has quickly established himself as one of the most promising spinners in international cricket.
His inclusion adds depth to the Knight Riders’ bowling attack and provides them with a potential match-winner in the middle overs.
The third season of the DP World ILT20 is set to kick off on Saturday, January 13, 2025, at the Dubai International Stadium. The opening match will be a rematch of last year’s final, with defending champions MI Emirates taking on the Dubai Capitals in what promises to be a thrilling start to the tournament.
The ILT20 has grown in stature since its inception in 2023. The Gulf Giants were crowned the inaugural champions, setting the tone for a high-quality competition. In 2024, MI Emirates, an affiliate of the IPL’s Mumbai Indians, claimed the title, further cementing the league’s reputation as a platform for top-tier cricket.
The league’s franchises boast strong ties to some of the biggest names in global cricket. The Dubai Capitals and Abu Dhabi Knight Riders are also affiliated with IPL teams, while the Desert Vipers are owned by the same group that controls Manchester United, one of the most famous football clubs in the world.
