Zee Entertainment Enterprises Limited (ZEE), one of India’s top media conglomerates, has been renewed as the broadcast partner for the DP World International League T20 (ILT20) Season 5.
The upcoming season of the Gulf region’s premier cricket league will begin on November 22, 2026. The six-team, 34-match competition, which has featured some of the best T20 talents throughout the years, will conclude with the Season 5 finals on December 20, at Dubai International Stadium.
The league switched to a December window in Season 4, after playing in the January-February window the previous three seasons. Season 4 was a huge success, with increased broadcast numbers and spectator attendance. Desert Vipers won their first title with a 46-run victory against MI Emirates in the tournament’s final on January 4, 2026, in front of a crowded Dubai International Stadium.
Sandeep Mehrotra, Chief Operating Officer – Advertisement Revenue, Zee Entertainment Enterprises Ltd. said, “We are excited to strengthen our association with DP World ILT20 as it enters its fifth season, building on the strong momentum of viewership growth and fan engagement witnessed in previous editions. Our focus is on delivering a high-impact and immersive experience for cricket fans through a seamless blend of platforms, and with Season 5, we aim to further expand the league’s reach, deepen audience connect, and reinforce its position as one of the most compelling T20 leagues globally.”
Cricket enthusiasts in India can continue to watch LIVE action on ‘Z’s linear TV stations and OTT platform, Zee5. As the network expands its sports portfolio, ‘Z’ is considering airing the event on its dedicated sports channels, which are set to premiere soon.
CEO DP World ILT20, David White, said, “We are pleased to confirm the DP World International League T20 Season 5 window. The biggest cricketing spectacle in the Gulf region will be played from Sunday, 22 November to Sunday, 20 December 2026. We are delighted with Season 4’s success. Season 4 was a major success, accumulating 397 million unique viewers across TV and OTT, a 7.49% increase over Season 3, driven by strong broadcast numbers, high spectator interest and the participation of top T20 stars, which further elevated the league’s quality.
“The DP World ILT20 continues to make massive strides and our strategic partnerships with Saudi Arabia Cricket Federation and Kuwait Cricket are already making a big impact. This year, these partnerships will be consolidated further through our development tournaments which will be played in both countries prior to Season 5. The DP World ILT20 Season 4 Player Auction was a great success as well and we are already gearing up for this year’s auction. There are a number of exciting announcements and initiatives that will be revealed in the coming days.”
