The DP World ILT20 Schools Cup 2025 launches with 39 schools and a new girls’ league, setting the stage for UAE’s next-gen cricket stars.
DUBAI: Cricket fever has returned to UAE schools with the much-anticipated DP World ILT20 Schools Cup 2025 getting underway across Abu Dhabi, Dubai and Sharjah this week. The third edition of the national schools cricket championship brings together 39 school teams and, for the first time, introduces a dedicated girls’ competition—signalling the rapid expansion of the sport among youth in the region.
Aimed at discovering and nurturing the next generation of UAE cricket stars, the tournament will run until 22 November, with the final to be held at the ICC Academy in Dubai. The event forms part of the broader ILT20 development programme, which offers a pathway for school players into professional cricket, and supports the long-term growth of the sport in the Emirates.
This year marks a historic first for girls’ cricket, with nine teams participating in the inaugural girls’ league. Matches will be played with leather balls, providing a professional experience and highlighting the increasing popularity of cricket among schoolgirls.
The Schools Cup has already produced memorable champions in its short history, including GEMS Modern School in 2023 and Cambridge High School Abu Dhabi in 2024. The 2025 edition will once again see schools compete for the prestigious title of DP World ILT20 Schools Champion.
In a unique initiative to deepen ties between schools and city teams, DP World ILT20 franchises will partner with participating schools to build team loyalty and fan engagement ahead of the main DP World ILT20 Season 4. The senior tournament kicks off on 2 December and runs until 4 January 2026, featuring six teams and 34 action-packed matches.
Tickets for the main ILT20 tournament are now available at tickets.ilt20.ae while Schools Cup details and team standings can be found at CricClubs.
