The fourth season of the ILT20 came to an end last night, and the Chief Executive of the ILT20, David White, has made a startling announcement that some phases of the tournament might be shifted to Pakistan in the future, according to Geo News.
David White, the chief executive of the International League T20 in the United Arab Emirates, has had long-standing connections with the Pakistan Cricket Board since his playing days, which continued during his stints as an administrator. He mentioned finishing his international career in Pakistan back in 1990, and said that early exposure to Pakistan cricket evolved his relationship with the board over the years.
David White had formerly served as a senior administrator of Cricket New Zealand, during which he formed a formidable relationship with current Pakistan coach Mike Hesson. For the past three years, his contributions to leagues like ILT20 have been widespread for the development and popularity of the sport in the Middle East.
Your daily dose of cricket!
David White points out the Growth and Global expansion of the International League T20
David White, the Chief Executive of the ILT20, admitted that the schedule had to be shifted due to the upcoming international commitments of the players associated with the tournament. It has managed to attract some of the best players in the world, though the SA20 and the BBL clashed with its proceedings this time.
White acknowledged the stunning infrastructure and the global standard in the UAE, which draws fine talents towards the league and leads to the benefit of players participating in the league.
He added, “I have been working here for three years and am enjoying it. We are promoting cricket in this region by conducting this league in a professional manner.
“This year, there have been some difficulties in the window due to the T20 World Cup. Despite this, we have quality players, even though two other leagues are running simultaneously in the world. Our facilities are very good; we have three world-class grounds. This league is benefiting Emirati cricket a lot.”
White revealed some major investments on the way from Saudi Arabia and Kuwait, with agreements to be signed that would allow players from those countries to be part of the league in the future.
White credits the support from Pakistani fans for ILT20’s growing popularity
Speaking of the main context of Pakistan, White, who already revealed his connections with the PCB, hinted that the ILT20 fixtures would be hosted in Pakistan in the future, as the board has a huge impact on the league’s success.
White went on to credit the broadcast in Pakistan, which boosted viewership of the league. According to him, broadcast numbers have been outstanding, which reflects the keen interest from Pakistani audiences in the International League T20, and he has thanked them for their response.
White also revealed how Pakistani players play a crucial role in the league and named six particular players who represented the Desert Vipers in the competition. Fakhar Zaman, Naseem Shah, Usman Tariq, Hassan Nawaz and Zafar Gohar — are part of the Desert Vipers squad.
ILT20 CEO said, “We will consider hosting ILT20 matches in Pakistan in the future.” (Geo News) pic.twitter.com/SAfhMEigPl
— Sheri. (@CallMeSheri1_) January 4, 2026
Mike Hesson would benefit Pakistan Cricket in future – Suggests David White
Boasting his own skills as a senior administrative executive for New Zealand cricket, David White mentioned hiring Mike Hesson as the National head coach of the New Zealand team in 2012, when Hesson was not a very well-known figure in international cricket.
White described Hesson as a very organised coach with a deep understanding of the game of cricket, crediting him with taking New Zealand cricket to new standards. He went on, adding that the PCB had made the right call in appointing him as their coach, as he would have a significant impact on their growth, which had already been initiated.
ALSO READ: Kieron Pollard nearly beats up Naseem Shah as shocking fight erupts in ILT20 Final
