International Sports
ATN secures exclusive rights to broadcast ILT20 Season 5 in Afghanistan
Afghanistan stars, including Rashid Khan, Fazalhaq Farooqi and Mohammad Nabi, are among the players associated with franchises competing in the league, adding further interest for Afghan audiences.
Ariana Radio and Television Network (ATN) has secured the exclusive media rights to broadcast the fifth season of the International League T20 (ILT20) across Afghanistan on television and digital platforms.
The acquisition will give cricket fans across the country access to the DP World ILT20, the United Arab Emirates’ professional franchise-based Twenty20 cricket league, which features international stars and players from several cricketing nations.
Season 5 is scheduled to run from November 21 to December 20, 2026, with 34 matches planned across three venues: Dubai International Stadium, Zayed Cricket Stadium in Abu Dhabi and Sharjah Cricket Stadium.
The tournament features six franchises: Abu Dhabi Knight Riders, Desert Vipers, Dubai Capitals, Gulf Giants, MI Emirates and Sharjah Warriorz. The competition comprises 30 group-stage matches followed by four playoff matches, including the final.
ILT20 has established itself as a platform for international cricket talent, bringing together leading overseas players and emerging cricketers from the UAE and the wider region. The league also has a strong connection with Afghanistan cricket, with Afghan internationals featuring among its players.
Afghanistan stars, including Rashid Khan, Fazalhaq Farooqi and Mohammad Nabi, are among the players associated with franchises competing in the league, adding further interest for Afghan audiences.
The tournament’s fast-paced T20 format, with each team facing a maximum of 20 overs, has helped make it a popular option for cricket broadcasting, offering action-packed matches suited to television and digital audiences.
The exclusive agreement strengthens ATN’s sports broadcasting offering and provides Afghan cricket fans with access to another major international competition featuring some of the game’s recognised players.
Further details on match-by-match coverage, broadcast schedules and digital viewing options will be communicated in the coming days. Fans are however encouraged to follow ATN’s social media platforms for updates.