A Productive Day at the Auction
The Desert Vipers signed 12 new players during the event in Dubai, complementing seven retained players, a direct signing, and a wildcard pick.
The new recruits include a diverse mix of talent from Pakistan, Afghanistan, England, Scotland, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE — reflecting the league’s growing international reach.
Strengthening Ties with Pakistan Cricket
Among the notable additions are Fakhar Zaman, Hasan Nawaz, and Naseem Shah from Pakistan.
“We are thrilled to continue our strong relationship with Pakistan cricket,” Moody said. “Fakhar Zaman was with us last season, and we’re delighted to welcome him back. He brings experience, leadership, and genuine impact at the top of the order.”
Fakhar Zaman, known for his explosive batting, has played across all formats for Pakistan and famously scored 210 not out in an ODI against Zimbabwe. His performances, including his match-winning hundred in the 2017 ICC Champions Trophy Final, make him a valuable addition.
Hasan Nawaz has impressed as a young, powerful hitter with franchise experience, while Naseem Shah adds world-class pace to the attack.
“Naseem needs no introduction. He’s a high-quality fast bowler who can operate across all phases of the game,” Moody added.
Local UAE Talent Shines
The Vipers also reinforced their UAE contingent, retaining Khuzaima Bin Tanveer and adding Vriitya Aravind, Sanjay Pahal, and Matiullah Khan.
“Vriitya was the first player picked in the auction and brings great quality as a wicketkeeper-batter,” said Moody. “Sanjay Pahal and Matiullah Khan both impressed in the ILT20 Development Tournament — Sanjay even won Player of the Tournament.”
Aravind, a key member of the UAE national side, has scored over 1,000 runs in both ODIs and T20Is, offering depth and flexibility in the batting order.
Afghan Flair and Emerging Talent
Afghanistan’s Qais Ahmad and Faridoon Dawoodzai join the squad, adding spin and pace balance.
“Qais is an experienced leg-spinner who has played in major T20 leagues worldwide,” said Moody. “Faridoon is a promising left-arm quick — one to watch for the future.”
Qais brings experience from the Big Bash League, The Hundred, CPL, and LPL, while Faridoon’s raw pace and potential make him a strong developmental prospect.
Expanding Horizons: First Players from Kuwait and Saudi Arabia
In a landmark move, the Desert Vipers became the first ILT20 franchise to sign players from Saudi Arabia and Kuwait — Faisal Khan and Bilal Tahir respectively.
“It’s fantastic to have players from new countries joining the tournament,” Moody said. “Faisal and Bilal both have solid reputations in their national setups and will add real value to our squad.”
Bilal Tahir is one of only seven players to have featured in over 50 T20Is for Kuwait.
New Faces from England and Scotland
Tawanda Muyeye, the Kent and Oval Invincibles batter, reunites with Moody after working together in The Hundred.
“Tawanda is one of the most exciting young players in English cricket — a stroke-player, a dynamic fielder, and a great character,” Moody shared.
Meanwhile, Thomas Bruce, a Scotland international (and former New Zealand player), joins as an Associate signing.
“Thomas brings top-order experience and cricketing intelligence. He’ll strengthen our batting group considerably,” Moody added.
Building Toward Season Four
The Desert Vipers have established themselves as consistent contenders in the DP World ILT20, reaching the final in two of the previous three seasons — including the inaugural 2023 edition.
They will kick off their Season 4 campaign on December 2, 2025, in a high-profile clash against the Dubai Capitals, a rematch of last season’s final.
Desert Vipers Squad for ILT20 Season Four
Players signed at the auction:
- Bilal Tahir (Kuwait)
- Faisal Khan (Saudi Arabia)
- Fakhar Zaman (Pakistan)
- Faridoon Dawoodzai (Afghanistan)
- Hasan Nawaz (Pakistan)
- Matiullah Khan (UAE)
- Naseem Shah (Pakistan)
- Sanjay Pahal (UAE)
- Thomas Bruce (Scotland)
- Tawanda Muyeye (England)
- Vriitya Aravind (UAE)
- Qais Ahmad (Afghanistan)
Retained players:
- Lockie Ferguson (Captain, New Zealand)
- Dan Lawrence (England)
- David Payne (England)
- Khuzaima Bin Tanveer (UAE)
- Max Holden (England)
- Sam Curran (England)
- Wanindu Hasaranga (Sri Lanka)
Direct signing: Andries Gous (USA)
Wildcard signing: Shimron Hetmyer (West Indies)
Looking Ahead
“It was a very solid auction for us,” concluded Moody. “We’ve built a balanced squad combining international experience, emerging talent, and local strength. We’re excited about what’s ahead for the Desert Vipers in Season Four.”