The Abu Dhabi T10 is set to welcome an exciting new entrant this season, Royal Champs, a team built on talent, tenacity and international flair. Led by cricketing legends and rising stars, the Royal Champs promise to bring a bold new energy to the fastest format of cricket.

The squad boasts a powerhouse lineup that blends global experience with emerging brilliance.

From England’s dynamic opener Jason Roy to Sri Lanka’s stalwart Angelo Mathews, Bangladesh’s talismanic all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan, and Australia’s explosive Daniel Sams — the Royal Champs are primed to make an immediate impact.

The team’s complete roster includes: Jason Roy, Angelo Mathews, Shakib Al Hasan, Chris Jordan, Daniel Sams, Mohammad Shehzad, Niroshan Dickwella, Rishi Dhawan, Liam Dawson, Brandon McMullen, Isuru Udana, Quentin Sampson, Rahul Chopra, Haider Razzaq, Zahid Ali, Kelvin Pitman, Vishen Halambage, Ziaur Rahman Sharifi, and Aaron Jones.

At the helm is Head Coach Sir Courtney Walsh, one of the most respected figures in world cricket, who brings decades of international experience, leadership and an unwavering belief in the game’s evolving dynamics. Head Coach Sir Courtney Walsh share, “The Royal Champs are more than just a new team, we are a statement of intent. This squad has the right mix of skill, fearlessness and adaptability to thrive in the high-octane T10 format. Our goal is simple — to play bold, entertain fans and compete with heart and integrity”

“T10 is redefining modern cricket, and the Royal Champs are here to be part of that evolution. Every player in this line-up brings something unique, and I believe our balance of experience and flair will make us a formidable force.” Head Coach Courtney Walsh added

Cricket fans, get ready for a non-stop thrill ride. The 2025 Abu Dhabi T10 is set to return this November, bringing with it two action-packed weeks of explosive cricketing entertainment. The tournament runs from November 18 to November 30, promising big hits, bold plays, and some of the biggest names in the game.

The season opener will see Quetta Qavalry take on Northern Warriors, setting the stage for what’s sure to be an electrifying start. Later that day, defending champions Deccan Gladiators will begin their title defence against the Delhi Bulls, a clash that’s already generating plenty of buzz among fans.

The Abu Dhabi T10 will follow its signature Round-Robin format, where all teams face each other in the league stage before the top four advance to the playoffs. Qualifier 1, featuring the top two sides, will take place on November 29, with the winner heading straight to the final. The losing team will get another shot in Qualifier 2, where they’ll face the winner of the Eliminator, played between the third and fourth-ranked teams.

The grand finale, set for November 30, will be followed by a closing ceremony, celebrating the champions and the excitement the T10 format continues to deliver year after year.

Known for its lightning-fast pace and star-studded line-ups, the Abu Dhabi T10 has become a fan favourite, where every ball, boundary, and wicket counts.

Fans can check out the full match schedule and ticket details on the official tournament website (www.t10league.com)

Norway Chess, the prestigious organiser of elite international chess tournaments, has officially launched a new World Championship series approved by the International Chess Federation (FIDE).

Dubbed the Total Chess World Championship Tour, the initiative aims to identify the player who excels across three formats: Fast Classic, Rapid, and Blitz.

“We are looking for ‘The Total Chess Player’, a versatile, tactically intelligent, and technically skilled athlete who seamlessly adapts to multiple time controls,” said Kjell Madland, CEO of Norway Chess and the new championship.

The Total Chess World Championship Tour will consist of four tournaments annually, held in different cities worldwide. A pilot tournament is planned for fall 2026, with the first full championship season kicking off in 2027. The overall winner at the final stop will be crowned the official FIDE World Combined Champion.

Tour Structure and Prize Pool

Each of the first three events will carry a minimum prize pool of $750,000, while the Finals, featuring the top four competitors, will award at least $450,000, in addition to performance bonuses for top scores at individual events and across the tour.

The Fast Classic format, featuring 45 minutes plus 30-second increments per move, will receive a classical chess rating, giving players the chance to demonstrate strategic skill in a faster-paced environment.

A New Era for Chess Fans

FIDE President Arkady Dvorkovich expressed strong support for the initiative: “Chess is already a global phenomenon, but the Total Chess World Championship Tour will bring a new title, faster formats, and engaging broadcasts to captivate both existing fans and new audiences. This complements the traditional World Chess Championship and represents a long-term collaboration with Norway Chess.”

Norway Chess is now inviting host cities, investors, and partners to join discussions about the tour, which promises cutting-edge technology, innovative broadcasts, and an exciting format aimed at broadening the global appeal of chess.