Having announced the signing of Pakistan’s star pacer Shaheen Afridi earlier this week, DP World ILT20 is expected to unveil more Pakistani players in the next 72 hours.

Chief Operating Officer DP World ILT20, Subhan Ahmad, told Dawn.com that there were some exciting announcements on the way about the new signings in the league.

“We will be unveiling the list in the next few days. Pakistan players will feature in the DP World ILT20 Season 2. We are delighted to have Shaheen for Season 2 as he is one of the biggest stars in the game at present,” said Subhan.

It is pertinent to mention here that Pakistani players had not featured in the inaugural edition of the tournament since the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) had prevented its players to ensure their availability for international cricket and the Pakistan Super League.

When asked how the DP World ILT20 management plans on countering the challenge of scheduling conflicts with the PCB and other cricket boards, Subhan said that the management was in continuous discussions with respective boards to minimise date clashes.

“Pakistan players’ availability period in DP World ILT20 Season 2 has been discussed with the PCB,” Subhan said. He believes that the presence of star Pakistan players will make it even more popular.

He also hinted at the possibility of attracting some of the biggest T20 stars from all over the world. “Other than Shaheen, we have some exceptional T20 performers from around the world who will make the tournament a truly memorable experience not only for the spectators at our three venues but also for fans who will watch the broadcast around the world,” added Subhan.

When asked how the league plans on attracting more fans to the stadia, he mentioned that the league’s inaugural edition’s final between Gulf Giants and Desert Vipers had a full house.

“This year, we will only build further. The DP World ILT20 brand is well established, and the teams have created a strong association with the UAE cricket fans.

“For Season 2, we are focused on making the games a family outing. Other than cricket, there will be carnivals, music and entertainment opportunities which will make each match a memorable experience for spectators of all age groups,” shared Subhan.

Humayoun Ahmed Khan is a freelance journalist. His work has previously appeared in Dawn, The News, Pak Observer, and The Quint.