DP World ILT20 is a platform where youngsters get opportunities: Waqar Younis

Season 3 of the grand DP World ILT20 kicked off in style on 11 January 2025, bringing together some of the finest cricketers from around the globe alongside young talent from the UAE. Among the tournament's biggest supporters is legendary Pakistani fast bowler Waqar Younis, who believes the league is a golden opportunity for upcoming players to display their skills on an international level.

Having taken 789 international wickets during his illustrious career, Waqar has been an integral part of ILT20 since its inception as a commentator. Speaking about the league's growth, he praised its ability to bring experience with fresh talent.

“The T20 cricket comes so fast that you don't remember what happened yesterday. But I think the D.P. World ILT20 is a very good tournament. It's growing day by day because you get to see new faces. Some players don't even get to see their faces. It's a platform where youngsters get opportunities,” Waqar shared with CricTracker on the sidelines of the DP World ILT20 2025.

UAE has very good bowlers: Waqar

Waqar mentioned the efforts of the UAE’s upcoming stars, particularly youngster Fahad Khan, who made headlines with an impressive performance. He further expressed how the UAE players are benefiting from a league like DP World ILT20.

"Fahad Khan is one [who has been impressive]. In the last few days, he has won in one match. But remember, he is 18 years old. He will take some time. But he is wily and he has pace. I think he will have a good future. It's a huge platform for young players, especially for UAE players. They didn't get the opportunities to play with the older players. So I think this is a great setup,” Waqar added.

The 53-year-old also spoke about the quality of UAE bowlers, who have been brilliant in the tournament. He said that the players from these regions will grow even more in the coming years.

"There are a lot of bowlers in the ILT20. It's difficult to say that these three are good. I haven't seen it from that perspective. But there are bowlers in the ILT20. No doubt. UAE has very good bowlers. So hopefully you will see better in the coming years," the former concluded.

Also Read: [Exclusive] I wish Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli come back in form soon: Harbhajan Singh

The league’s inclusion of cricketing legends like Waqar, Wasim Akram, Simon Doull, Virender Sehwag, Shoaib Akhtar, and Harbhajan Singh on the commentary panel has advanced the experience for players and fans alike.