Nicholas Pooran gears up for ILT20 season 3, highlights growing quality and UAE talent

West Indies star Nicholas Pooran is ready to lead MI Emirates in their title defense as the third season of the International League T20 (ILT20) kicks off on January 11 in Dubai. With the tournament gaining global attention for its competitive nature and its role in developing UAE cricketing talent, Pooran is eager to replicate last season’s success.

Pooran, who captained MI Emirates to victory in the previous season, expressed excitement about returning to the league. “It’s nice to be back for the third season of the DP World ILT20. We’re looking forward to doing our best again this year and retaining the title, but there’s a lot of hard work ahead for me and the team,” he said.

Reflecting on the tournament’s growing reputation, Pooran added, “Each year, the quality keeps improving. The DP World ILT20 feels like international cricket with nine overseas players and two UAE guys in the mix. Competitiveness is key, and it’s great to see the tournament getting better every season.”

Pooran highlighted the league’s significance in nurturing UAE cricketers. “Tournaments like this are crucial for developing players in the UAE. It’s a fantastic opportunity for them to learn from some of the best in the business,” he noted.

He also praised UAE’s Muhammad Waseem, who has been a standout performer in the league. Waseem, a two-time Blue Belt winner for Best UAE Player, scored 321 runs in 12 innings last season and has been pivotal for MI Emirates. “Waseem has been incredible since he got his chance. He’s brilliant for MI and a symbol of UAE’s cricketing potential. I hope he continues to achieve great things,” said Pooran.

Pooran, the second-highest run-scorer last season with 354 runs at an average of 50.57 and a strike rate of 170, acknowledged the challenges of maintaining such high performance. “Every year brings new challenges. Preparation starts over Christmas, getting my body in shape and my mind in the right place. Each game is a new opportunity, and it’s all about doing what the team needs,” he remarked.

Pooran also expressed his appreciation for the league’s passionate fan base. “Our fans are incredible, not just in the UAE but also in India and across the world. Hopefully, we can keep putting smiles on their faces and bring more titles to them,” he said.

The third season of the ILT20 runs from January 11 to February 9, 2025.