Special quota for Afghanistan and Ireland, ILT20 under scrutiny

Ahead of the 2026 season, the International League T20 (ILT20) is set to introduce a new player quota system. However, the decision has been strongly opposed by all six franchises of the tournament. Despite the objections, the UAE-based franchise league is moving ahead with the implementation of the new rules.

According to an ESPNcricinfo report, the 2026 Player Contract Model sent to franchises in May outlines the new conditions. It states that each team must include at least four players from Afghanistan and one from Ireland in their squad. In addition, the playing XI must feature a minimum of two Afghan players, two players from the United Arab Emirates (UAE), and one player from an Associate nation.

Under the new rules, each squad will consist of 21 to 23 players. It also mandates the inclusion of 11 players from 12 Full Member nations, four UAE cricketers (including one capped international and one Under-23 player), two players from Gulf Cooperation Council countries, and one player from an Associate nation.

It is reported that ILT20 faced several player availability issues over the past four seasons. In particular, scheduling clashes with tournaments such as the Big Bash League and the SA20, along with restrictions imposed by various cricket boards, made it difficult to secure top players.

There are also concerns from organizers that more cricket boards may restrict their players from participating in overseas franchise leagues in the future. As a result, ILT20 has reportedly worked out agreements with the Afghanistan Cricket Board and Cricket Ireland to ensure the participation of their players.

However, franchises argue that the new rules will reduce their freedom to build the best possible teams. They believe that if nearly half of the playing XI must come from specific countries or categories, it will limit flexibility in squad selection. They also warn that similar agreements with other countries in the future could further complicate the situation.

Franchise officials have also criticized the lack of consultation before the new rules were introduced. However, the organizers believe that these measures will help ensure player availability and maintain the long-term stability of the league.