Holders Capitals kick off DP World ILT20 title defence vs Vipers today

The DP World ILT20 Season 4 arrives with a wave of excitement, ready to deliver world-class cricket to fans around the world. This edition marks a transformative chapter in the league's journey, following the first-ever Season 4 Player Auction and the inclusion of players from Saudi Arabia and Kuwait for the first time.

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With the region's premier T20 league set to begin today, the captains and star players from all six franchises gathered ahead of the tournament, expressing their anticipation and outlining their expectations for the season ahead.

Representing the reigning champions Dubai Capitals for a second consecutive season, Afghanistan all-rounder Gulbadin Naib said: “It’s good to be here. We always love this tournament. Last year we won, but we're looking forward to another successful season. It’s a huge platform for everybody.

“We have got some new faces and they are very keen to do something for the team. This is a mega event, so as professionals it’s important for us to get our mindset right.

“We know the conditions, so we should be able to adapt. We had amazing support and we're looking forward to more of the same.”

Lockie Ferguson, who led the Desert Vipers to the finals last season - their second in the DP World ILT20-highlighted the squad’s camaraderie and balance: “It feels like a family. The boys really get along, and we played great cricket throughout the tournament last season, so this year we're looking to do even better.