Jason Holder Shares Enthusiasm For Upcoming DP World ILT20 Season 3 And Local Talent Growth

Add as a preferred source on Google

Jason Holder is eagerly anticipating the third season of the DP World International League T20, which kicks off on January 11, 2025. Having previously played for the Dubai Capitals, Holder will now join the Abu Dhabi Knight Riders.

He is excited about the league's growth and the increasing involvement of UAE players, which he believes enhances both the competition and opportunities for local talent.

Holder, a seasoned player with 261 T20 matches under his belt, including 63 T20Is, praised the league's competitive nature. The inclusion of nine international players in each team elevates the tournament to near-international standards.

"When you have nine international players [in a playing eleven], it almost feels like an international game," he said. "So, you know, the competition levels are very high."

The DP World ILT20 has become a platform for showcasing UAE talent. Holder commended this initiative, noting that many UAE players deserve opportunities in international tournaments. "It's always good to see the local talent prospering," he stated. As the tournament expands, so does the potential for UAE cricket to strengthen further.

Reflecting on his debut season with Dubai Capitals, Holder expressed satisfaction with his performance. He scored 121 runs at a strike rate of 159 and took nine wickets in as many matches. The enthusiastic fan support across Dubai, Sharjah, and Abu Dhabi added to his positive experience.

Holder will join a formidable lineup at Abu Dhabi Knight Riders alongside Andre Russell, Sunil Narine, Michael Pepper, Charith Asalanka, and David Willey. His versatility as both a batsman and bowler adds significant value to the team. "I enjoy batting when I’m smashing the ball around the park and bowling when I’m taking wickets," he shared.

Looking forward to playing for a new franchise, Holder expressed excitement about contributing to its success and witnessing more fans filling stadiums. "I am very excited to be part of the Abu Dhabi Knight Riders for the upcoming season," he remarked.

The upcoming season promises to be bigger and better according to Holder's expectations. His enthusiasm reflects not only personal ambitions but also hopes for team success in this growing tournament.

Cricket fans and sports enthusiasts in India and around the world can watch the LIVE action exclusively on ZEE's 15 linear TV channels, OTT platform ZEE5 and its syndicate partners' TV and digital networks across the world.