Dubai: The third season of the DP World International League T20 will begin on Jan. 11 next year, organizers have announced.

The 34-match tournament will run for a month with the final to be played on Feb. 9.

The season three window announcement follows the hugely successful second season, which concluded with the MI Emirates lifting the iconic DP World ILT20 trophy in front of a capacity crowd at the Dubai International Stadium in the final on Feb. 17 this year.

The broadcast numbers for season two received a major boost with a total of 348 million unique viewers from around the world via the linear and online platforms of tournament broadcast rights holder Zee Network, and its broadcast syndication partners in different territories.

Season two also saw a major increase in crowds across the three tournament venues in Abu Dhabi, Dubai and Sharjah. There was a phenomenal increase in crowd numbers across the three sites, with a cumulative increase of almost 300 percent in comparison to the first season of the tournament.

Season three will once again provide spectators at the three stadiums and fans from around the world — using the Zee Network and partner platforms — enthralling cricket action with a lineup of world-class T20 talent and exciting entertainment offerings for fans from all age groups.

DP World ILT20 CEO David White said: “We are delighted to confirm the window for DP World International League T20 season three. The window has been finalized after discussions with our stakeholders. We have begun our preparations for season three with an aim of making the league even bigger and better.

“Season two was a massive success in terms of all relevant metrics and helped further strengthen the league’s reputation, making it one of the most sought after T20 leagues for players, fans and broadcasters from around the world. Having considered all aspects, the January-February window for season three has turned out to be the most suitable.

“The DP World ILT20 is also proving to be a successful platform for the development of the UAE players as seen in their recent outstanding performance in the ACC Premier Cup in Oman, which helped them qualify for the prestigious Asia Cup (2025, T20 format) for the first time in eight years. Most of the players who excelled in Oman had gained invaluable experience and exposure in season two.

“The cricket fans in the UAE and those who travel to our wonderful destinations Abu Dhabi, Dubai and Sharjah from across the globe will have a lot to look forward to in season three. We have a series of exciting announcements lined up as our six world-class franchises and their coaching staff put their heads together for retention of players while eying new local and international talent for season three signings.”

RIYADH: A stoppage-time goal by Marcelo Brozovic secured a 3-2 win for Al-Nassr against gallant Al-Okhdood on Thursday night at Prince Hathloul Stadium, which means a delay for Al-Hilal’s crowning as Saudi Pro League champions.

Al-Nassr had led 2-0 at half time before the home team mounted a spirited second-half comeback to square the match, a result which would have handed the title to leaders Al-Hilal with four matches left.

The win raised the Yellows’ points tally to 77 points, nine behind their Riyadh rivals. Al-Hilal can wrap up a record-extending 19th championship on Saturday night with a win or draw against Al-Hazem in Riyadh.

Al-Nassr took the lead through Brozovic after only seven minutes and a comfortable win was on the cards when Cristiano Ronaldo made it 2-0 only eight minutes later.

However, goals by Hassan Al-Habib on the hour mark and Saviour Goodwin 10 minutes later looked to have earned the 15th-placed team a vital point in their battle against relegation.

In the unlikely event they fail to win against Al-Hazem, Al-Hilal will have another chance on May 17 against Al-Nassr in the Riyadh Derby at Al-Awwal Park Stadium.