DUBAI: ILT20 Season 4 came to life on Tuesday night with a stunning display of fireworks and lights at the Dubai International Stadium, as thousands of fans, including Pakistanis, celebrated UAE National Day and the launch of the region’s biggest T20 league.
The night began with a high-energy performance by Pakistani star Ali Zafar, who performed a medley of his most popular hits before National Day-themed fireworks lit up the “Ring of Fire.”
The ‘Ring of Fire’ lived up to its name, with golden fireworks arching above the stadium roof before cascading down like molten rain, a sight that drew cheers from the packed venue.
Inside the stadium, the grass was illuminated with waves of red, green, white and black smoke (the colors of the UAE flag), creating one of the most vibrant opening events in the tournament’s history.
The off-site fan park has been redesigned as a “Crickmas Wonderland”, linking the league’s opening week with the region’s festive period.
This season carries extra interest for Pakistani cricket lovers, with Naseem Shah, Fakhar Zaman and Hassan Nawaz featuring prominently across the franchises.
Naseem’s move to the Desert Vipers franchise has attracted particular attention, with captain Lockie Ferguson saying the Pakistani fast bowler’s 150km/h pace “will have a big impact” this season.
The move to a December-January window, brought forward due to next year’s T20 World Cup, has aligned the tournament with the UAE’s festive season, increasing attendance and atmosphere.
Matches are broadcast live in Pakistan on PakGazette Super.
