Saudi Arabia set to launch Dunes T20 League

The cricketing world is set to get its newest T20 franchise league as Saudi Arabia is set to launch their first-ever franchise league, the Dunes League T20, which is scheduled to make its debut in October 2026. The league which has been officially sanctioned by the Saudi Arabia Cricket Federation (SACF). The league is set to feature some of the biggest names in the shortest format as legends who have retired from international cricket but playing across franchise leagues will light up the league. The South Asian Network Limited (SAN Ltd) has acquired the rights to establish and manage the league. 

The Dunes T20 League is set to feature six teams and will take place in Taif, near Jeddah. The tournament has also roped in former Indian World Cup winning player Yuvraj Singh as the league’s ambassador. Additionally it is reported to have a maximum of who have played Full-Member international cricket in the last two years, thereby falling under the requirements needed for approval from the ICC. Once the Dunes League T20 gets going it will join a host of franchise leagues around the world like the IPL, BBL, CPL, PSL, LPL and SA20 amongst others.

A statement released by the organisers read,

“South Asian Network Limited today announced a strategic partnership with Unique Sports Group and Prolithic Talent Agency, the sports management and investment company mentored by cricket legend Yuvraj Singh, to launch the Dunes T20 League in Saudi Arabia in October 2026.The partnership follows SAN Ltd being awarded the rights by the Saudi Arabian Cricket Federation in October 2025 to establish and operate the Kingdom’s first professional T20 cricket competition. The six-team league will run from the second week of October 2026 and represents a significant step in the development of cricket in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The Dunes T20 League aims to accelerate the growth of the sport across the region, provide opportunities for emerging and established local players, and deliver a world-class sporting and entertainment product to global audiences, with legends of the game expected to be involved.

‘The partnership combines SAN Ltd’s commercial and operational expertise with Unique Sports Group’s international sports and talent management experience and Prolithic Talent Agency’s work in athlete representation, brand development and sports investment.With Yuvraj Singh joining as League Ambassador, the Dunes T20 League will benefit from his experience at the highest level of international cricket and his global fan following.”

Yuvraj Singh, commented,

“Really looking forward to joining the Dunes T20 League as league ambassador at such an exciting time for cricket in Saudi Arabia. This league has the vision and ambition to grow the game in a new market, create opportunities for local emerging players, and bring fans a truly authentic cricket experience.What makes it even more exciting is the opportunity to see legends of the international game come together alongside rising talent to inspire the next generation. I’m looking forward to helping build something special that can leave a lasting impact on cricket in the region.”