Desert Vipers: ILT20 Franchise Profile and History

Desert Vipers are one of the six franchises that compete in the International League T20, the Twenty20 tournament played in the United Arab Emirates. They are best known as the champions of the league’s first season.

Origins

The ILT20 was established by the Emirates Cricket Board and began in January 2023. Desert Vipers are owned by Lancer Capital, a group that also holds interests in other sports. The team’s snake-themed branding gave it a distinctive identity among the six launch franchises.

Achievements

Desert Vipers won the inaugural ILT20 title in 2023, defeating Dubai Capitals in the final. Their campaign made them the first name on the tournament’s trophy. As of the end of 2024 that remained their title, and later seasons are not covered on this page.

Home venues

ILT20 matches are spread across the principal grounds in the UAE, which include Dubai International Stadium, Sheikh Zayed Stadium in Abu Dhabi and Sharjah Cricket Stadium. Venue allocation can change from season to season, so the team is best thought of as a UAE-wide franchise rather than tied to a single stadium.

Style and significance

Like the other ILT20 sides, the Vipers assemble a squad from a mix of international stars, experienced franchise players and local talent, with an emphasis on adapting to the slower, grippier conditions often found on UAE pitches. Squads change every year, so they are not listed here.

The ILT20 has helped to establish the UAE as a regular home for franchise cricket during the winter months, and Desert Vipers’ title in the opening season gives them a notable place in its short history.