The spotlight burned bright at the Zayed Cricket Stadium as the 2025 Abu Dhabi T10 officially lifted the curtain on its latest edition, bringing together some of the biggest names in global cricket. The stadium buzzed with anticipation as the Global Legends and Icon Players of all eight franchises assembled for the ceremonial launch — a star-studded gathering that signaled the start of another high-octane season of the world’s fastest cricket format.
Among those gracing the stadium were Kieron Pollard of UAE Bulls, Thisara Perera of Northern Warriors, Angelo Mathews of Royal Champs, Faf du Plessis of Vista Riders, Sam Billings of Aspin Stallions, Nicholas Pooran of Deccan Gladiators, Moeen Ali of Ajman Titans, and Thisara Perera representing new entrants Quetta Qavalry. Their presence underscored the tournament’s continued rise in global stature and its growing appeal among top-tier international cricketers.
Speaking ahead of the season opener, Pollard expressed excitement not just for the tournament, but also for the growth of local cricket in the UAE. “It’s great to see the local talent developing, and being part of this tournament alongside them is something special,” he said. “I’m looking forward to playing with the likes of Rohid.”
For Moeen Ali, the UAE’s evolution into a premier cricketing destination is both impressive and inspiring. Calling the country a “global cricket hub,” he praised the facilities, organisational excellence, and ever-expanding passion for the sport. “It feels great to be part of something that’s putting UAE cricket on the map and attracting the best players from around the world,” he noted.
This year’s tournament promises 32 explosive matches across 12 days, each one a 90-minute adrenaline-fuelled contest defined by relentless hitting and unyielding pace. The opening night sets the stage for a compelling start as debutants Quetta Qavalry face Northern Warriors, followed by defending champions Deccan Gladiators taking on UAE Bulls.
For Gladiators captain Nicholas Pooran, the UAE remains a second home — a venue intertwined with memories and milestones from his early cricketing journey. “I’ve always loved playing cricket in the UAE,” he remarked. “The atmosphere, the fans, the conditions — everything just feels right. It has always been home away from home.”
The competition will follow a round-robin structure, with each team facing every other side before the top four progress to the playoffs. The knockout stage begins on 29 November with Qualifier 1 and the Eliminator, while 30 November will host Qualifier 2 and the grand final — a double-header that will crown the 2025 champion under the lights of the iconic Zayed Cricket Stadium.
Beyond the action on the field, the Abu Dhabi T10 continues to grow in global reach. The tournament will be broadcast across multiple continents, ensuring fans from Asia to Europe, the Caribbean to North America, and the Middle East to Africa can tune in. From Star Sports in India to A Sports in Pakistan, Willow TV in the US, Premier Sports in the UK, and extensive coverage across the MENA region, the league’s footprint underscores its emergence as a truly international spectacle.
With its star cast, global visibility, and unmatched pace of play, the 2025 Abu Dhabi T10 is poised to deliver yet another edition of explosive cricket — and judging by the opening night’s energy, the tournament has already begun with the roar of a blockbuster.
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