DP World ILT20 Helped Me Reach the International Stage, Says UAE Pacer Khuzaima Tanveer

Dubai: UAE fast bowler Khuzaima Tanveer believes that the DP World ILT20 has completely changed the direction of his cricket career. The talented pacer says the league gave him the confidence, experience, and exposure needed to perform at the international level.

From being a promising young cricketer to wearing the UAE national jersey, Khuzaima feels the tournament has played a huge role in helping him grow both on and off the field. Sharing the dressing room with some of the biggest stars in world cricket has also helped him understand the game better.

With Season 5 of the DP World ILT20 scheduled to take place in November and December 2026, Khuzaima is looking forward to another exciting opportunity to improve his skills.

Representing UAE Was a Dream Come True

For every young cricketer, representing the national team is the biggest achievement, and Khuzaima says it was no different for him.

He described receiving his UAE passport and making his international debut as two unforgettable moments in his life. According to him, those milestones made all the years of hard work worthwhile.

Khuzaima explained that playing in the DP World ILT20 before his international debut made him mentally stronger because he had already competed against world-class players. Facing international stars regularly gave him confidence that he belonged at the highest level of cricket.

A Breakthrough Performance Changed Everything

The 26-year-old first grabbed everyone’s attention during Season 3 of the DP World ILT20 when he delivered an impressive spell of 4 wickets for 22 runs against Sharjah Warriorz.

That outstanding performance proved he could compete against top-quality batters and opened new doors in his career.

Since then, he has become one of the most dependable UAE bowlers in the competition.

Over two seasons with the Desert Vipers, Khuzaima has picked up 24 wickets in 18 matches, showing remarkable consistency. During the Vipers’ title-winning campaign, he finished as the second-highest wicket-taker among UAE players with 17 wickets, making him one of the standout local performers.

He was also among the contenders for the prestigious Blue Belt Award, given to the tournament’s best UAE player.

Learning From Some of Cricket’s Biggest Stars

Khuzaima says the biggest advantage of playing in the DP World ILT20 is not just the matches but everything that happens behind the scenes.

Training sessions, team meetings, and dressing-room discussions have helped him learn valuable lessons from experienced players and coaches.

He shared that playing alongside stars like Sam Curran, Naseem Shah, and Lockie Ferguson has been a fantastic learning experience. According to him, even a small piece of advice from such world-class cricketers can make a huge difference over time.

The fast bowler believes these interactions have helped him improve his bowling, understand match situations better, and develop a stronger mindset.

Comparison With Waqar Younis Is a Huge Compliment

Many cricket fans have compared Khuzaima’s bowling action to Pakistan legend Waqar Younis, but the UAE pacer remains humble.

He says no one can truly compare themselves to a legendary bowler like Waqar, who inspired generations of fast bowlers around the world.

However, Khuzaima admitted that hearing such comparisons feels special and motivates him to continue improving his own game instead of trying to imitate anyone else.

Meeting Cricket Legends Was a Dream

One of the most memorable parts of playing in the DP World ILT20 has been the chance to interact with cricket legends.

Khuzaima said speaking directly with icons like Waqar Younis and Wasim Akram has been an incredible experience.

Listening to their advice, understanding their approach to fast bowling, and learning from their decades of experience have helped him become a smarter cricketer.

He believes opportunities like these are priceless for any young player hoping to build a successful international career.

Handling the Responsibility of International Cricket

Since making his debut for the UAE, Khuzaima says he feels a greater sense of responsibility every time he steps onto the field.

Representing the country means expectations are much higher—not only from fans but also from himself.

He wants to keep improving his performances, remain consistent, and contribute whenever he gets the opportunity to wear the national colours.

His main focus now is to establish himself as a regular member of the UAE squad and continue delivering strong performances in international cricket.

Muhammad Waseem Inspires UAE Cricketers

Khuzaima also praised UAE captain Muhammad Waseem, calling him an inspiration for local players.

He said Waseem has consistently performed against some of the world’s best cricketers in the DP World ILT20, proving that UAE players can compete successfully on the biggest stages.

According to Khuzaima, Waseem’s success motivates younger cricketers to believe in themselves and aim higher.

Eyes Set on DP World ILT20 Season 5

Looking ahead, Khuzaima is excited about the upcoming fifth season of the tournament.

He believes every new season brings fresh challenges and fresh opportunities to learn from elite players across the globe.

His goal is simple—to keep improving, help his team win matches, and continue taking full advantage of everything the DP World ILT20 has to offer.

With growing international experience and increasing confidence, Khuzaima Tanveer appears ready to become one of UAE cricket’s leading fast bowlers in the years ahead.

His inspiring journey shows how the DP World ILT20 has become an important platform for developing local talent and preparing players for success on the international stage.