DUBAI, United Arab Emirates — With their sights firmly set on a repeat championship run, the Dubai Capitals have secured two of their most potent weapons for the 2025 season of the International League T20 (ILT20).
West Indies T20 captain Shai Hope and power-hitter Rovman Powell will return to lead the Capitals’ charge, as the franchise looks to maintain its dominance in the desert.
Hope was nothing short of sensational last season, finishing as the tournament’s top run-scorer. Across 12 innings, he amassed a commanding 527 runs at a stellar average of 58.55, striking at 124.29. His bat produced one century and three half-centuries, a testament to his consistency and calm under pressure.
“Hope was the bedrock of our success last year,” a team source noted. “His leadership, both tactically and with the bat, set the tone for our campaign.”
Powell packs power, Naib returns, and new faces arrive
Powell, the heartbeat of the Capitals’ middle order, brought brute force to the crease, scoring 202 runs at an average of 33.66 with a blistering strike rate of 145.32. The retention of both Hope and Powell not only strengthens the Capitals’ batting core but also ensures West Indian flair remains central to the team’s identity.
Also returning is Afghanistan all-rounder Gulbadin Naib, a reliable presence in both departments. The Capitals have bolstered their attack with new acquisitions, including Afghan wrist-spinner Waqar Salamkheil, England’s left-arm seamer Luke Wood, and UAE pacer Muhammad Jawadullah.
Franchises build foundations ahead of ILT20 auction
The Capitals aren’t the only franchise locking in key players ahead of the upcoming player auction. MI Emirates have retained hard-hitting all-rounder Romario Shepherd, while adding English veteran Chris Woakes and Sri Lankan all-rounder Kamindu Mendis to their roster.
Sharjah Warriorz will again feature explosive West Indies opener Johnson Charles, who has been retained for another tilt at the title.
Meanwhile, Abu Dhabi Knight Riders, eager to bounce back from their last-place finish in 2024, have held onto Caribbean stalwarts Andre Russell and Sunil Narine. Their intent to rebuild is underscored by the additions of Sherfane Rutherford, England’s Liam Livingstone, and the dangerous Alex Hales.
ILT29 moves to avoid World Cup clash
The ILT20 has also made a strategic calendar shift. The 2025 edition will now take place during a December–January window, avoiding the traditionally congested January–February schedule and wrapping up ahead of the Men’s T20 World Cup set for February through March.
According to a statement released by the league, final squad compositions will be determined through an official player auction, with further details to be announced in the coming weeks.
As franchises continue to shape their rosters, Caribbean talent remains in high demand—highlighted by the retention of multiple West Indies stars. With Hope and Powell leading the way for the defending champions, and fellow West Indians like Russell, Narine, Shepherd, Charles, and Rutherford anchoring other franchises, the ILT20 once again promises to showcase the region’s flair, firepower, and fierce competitive spirit on one of the sport’s most glamorous stages.
