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RIYADH: The DP World International League T20 has joined forces with the ��������n Cricket Federation in a landmark agreement aimed at accelerating the growth of cricket in the Kingdom and Gulf region.

Under the partnership, announced in Dubai on Tuesday, the SACF officially licensed the DP World ILT20 as a recognized Twenty20 league for both men and women. The move paves the way for ILT20 matches to be staged in ��������, while also creating new development pathways for the Kingdom’s cricketers.

The collaboration will see the ILT20 work closely with SACF and its commercial arm, the Cricket Investment Company, to nurture local talent, enhance infrastructure and build stronger engagement with cricket fans in the Kingdom.

Significantly, Saudi players will now have a direct entry point into the competition. Each franchise in the upcoming ILT20 Season 4 Player Auction, scheduled for Oct. 1, will have to sign at least one Saudi player.

“We are very proud to announce our partnership with the ��������n Cricket Federation. �������� is a key part of the Gulf region, and its commitment to developing cricket is inspiring,” said Khalid Al-Zarooni, chairman of the ILT20.

“This partnership is built on our shared vision of growing the game beyond borders. The DP World ILT20 will create opportunities for players and hopefully bring world-class cricket closer to the fans.”

Prince Saud bin Mishal Al-Saud, SACF chairman, said the agreement aligned with the Kingdom’s ambitions under Vision 2030 to expand sporting opportunities and community engagement.

“This collaboration reflects our commitment to developing cricket in the country and providing our players with opportunities to grow and succeed on an international stage,” he said.

“It also provides a platform for fan engagement and opens further avenues for developing the game across infrastructure and tourism.”

David White, ILT20 CEO, described the partnership as a “significant step” in strengthening the game across the region.

“With ��������’s dynamic growth in sport and entertainment, this partnership provides a tremendous opportunity for Saudi cricketers to develop,” he said.

“In the coming years we will be hosting DP World ILT20 tournament matches in ��������. From next year, a development tournament will also be staged there, which will provide an excellent opportunity to the local talent to make a claim for the main event. The league will also help �������� in cricketing infrastructure development.”

Season 4 of the DP World ILT20 will kick off on Dec. 2, with six teams competing across 34 matches before the final on Jan. 4, 2026.

LONDON: William Saliba has signed a new long-term contract with Arsenal, the Premier League club announced on Tuesday.
The France defender has reportedly put pen to paper on a five-year deal, which will keep him at the club until 2030. His previous contract had been due to run until 2027.
Saliba, 24, had been expected to extend his stay at the Emirates despite earlier reported interest from Real Madrid.
The center-back joined the Gunners in 2019 but had a number of loan spells before establishing himself as a regular in Mikel Arteta’s team during the 2022/23 season.
Since then Saliba has been at the heart of an Arsenal side that has finished second in each of the past three seasons in the Premier League.
“I feel at home. We have a good team, we have a good squad, we have good staff. The coach is perfect for me, so it’s the best place to be,” said Saliba.
“I enjoy every day when I have the chance to wear this shirt. I try to give everything, and now I’ll give even more to this club and to the fans.”
Manager Arteta said: “William is loved by all the players and staff, and that speaks volumes about his character, commitment and attitude every day.
“Since joining us, William has grown so much, embraced responsibility, and has created a strong connection with our supporters and everyone at the club.”
Arsenal are second in the Premier League, two points behind leaders Liverpool after six games of the season.