The DP World ILT20 Season 3 concluded in spectacular fashion, with the Dubai Capitals lifting the trophy after an exhilarating final against the Desert Vipers. While international stars took the spotlight, UAE’s homegrown cricketers also made a significant impact with standout performances for their respective teams.
Here are the top five UAE players who lit up the tournament:
Muhammad Waseem
Representing MI Emirates, Muhammad Waseem delivered another strong campaign securing the Blue Belt (Best UAE Player) for a third consecutive season, scoring 183 runs in 10 matches at a strike rate of 132.60. Renowned for his explosive batting, nearly half of his runs came from sixes, as he struck 13 maximums during the competition. Waseem also showcased his fielding prowess, claiming six catches across the tournament.
Muhammad Rohid Khan
Also part of the MI Emirates line-up, Muhammad Rohid Khan was a standout performer with the ball, claiming 10 wickets in just five matches. He recorded two three-wicket hauls, including a match-winning spell against the Desert Vipers and another crucial performance against the Sharjah Warriorz in the Eliminator.
Aayan Afzal Khan
The young all-rounder impressed for the Gulf Giants, even though his team fell short of the playoffs. Aayan emerged as one of the competition’s leading spinners, taking 10 wickets in seven innings. His four-wicket haul for just 16 runs against the Abu Dhabi Knight Riders set a record for the best bowling figures by a UAE player in DP World ILT20 history. He also maintained an impressive economy rate of 6.17 across 17 overs, only Suni Narine (Abu Dhabi Knight Riders) matched him, and Wanindu Hasaranga (Desert Vipers) returned a better economy rate.
Alishan Sharafu
Alishan Sharafu played a crucial role in the Abu Dhabi Knight Riders’ middle order, amassing 220 runs in nine innings at an average of 31.42—the third highest for his team. He began the tournament with 46 runs against the Desert Vipers, while his best knock was a 55-run effort from 38 balls in a commanding 42-run victory over MI Emirates.
Khuzaima Tanveer
Despite sharing the Desert Vipers’ bowling duties with international stars like Lockie Ferguson, Mohammad Amir, and Wanindu Hasaranga, Khuzaima Tanveer stood out with a match-winning four-wicket haul for 22 runs against the Sharjah Warriorz. He also claimed two wickets when the sides met again in Qualifier 2, underlining his ability to deliver in high-pressure encounters.
Special Mention
Farhan Khan earned plaudits for his composure under pressure, defending 11 runs in the final over against MI Emirates’ Kieron Pollard during the season opener. Often entrusted with the new ball for the Dubai Capitals, the right-arm pacer established himself as a player to watch for the future.
MI Emirates pacer Zahoor Khan also made his presence felt, claiming five wickets during the tournament and adding depth to the team’s bowling attack.
