The Desert Vipers, the defending champions of the UAE-based ILT20, are currently reconsidering their previous decision to pull out of the competition. The franchise, which is promoted by Avram Glazer and owned by Lancer Capital, appears to be nearing a settlement with the league’s management. While neither the franchise nor the league officials have commented on the situation, it is understood that negotiations involving senior representatives—potentially including Glazer himself—have taken place to resolve long-standing grievances regarding the league's business model.
The dispute, which surfaced approximately two years ago, initially prompted a senior US-based official from the Vipers to formally notify the league and other franchises of their intention to exit. The Vipers, notably the only team in the tournament with non-Indian ownership, cited an unviable business model as their primary motivation for departure. Despite these tensions, the league had reportedly prepared contingency plans involving the Saudi Arabian Cricket Federation and Kuwait Cricket to maintain the tournament's stability. However, with the two sides now working toward a compromise, those backup measures appear unnecessary.
While the internal negotiations continue, the Desert Vipers have maintained their regular operations and are currently competing in the Global Super League in Guyana. The team, captained by Shadab Khan, has struggled in the six-team competition, losing their opening two matches. The ILT20 is set to begin its fifth edition on November 22, featuring six franchises including the MI Emirates, Abu Dhabi Knight Riders, Dubai Capitals, Gulf Giants, and Sharjah Warriors.
Organizers have also confirmed that the Season 5 auction is scheduled for October 1, though the specific venue remains undisclosed. Each franchise will operate with a $2 million auction purse and the ability to retain or sign four players directly. Squad requirements include a total of 21 to 23 players, with mandatory quotas for four Afghanistan players and one Irish player within the 11-player overseas limit. Additionally, teams must utilize four Right to Match (RTM) cards for specific player categories: one Full Member, one UAE, one Saudi or Kuwait, and one Associate player. Playing XI requirements mandate the inclusion of at least two UAE players, two Afghanistan players, and one additional Associate player.
