DP World ILT20 prepared me for international stage, says Khuzaima Tanveer

DUBAI: The UAE and Desert Vipers’ fast bowler Khuzaima Tanveer believes the DP World ILT20 has played a significant role in his development, helping him grow as a player through exposure to some of the biggest names in world cricket.

Having progressed from an emerging talent to a capped UAE international, the right-arm pacer reflected on the impact the league has had on his journey.

He said: “Representing the UAE was a proud moment for me and it’s something every young cricketer dreams about. Getting my UAE passport and then going on to play for the national team were very special milestones for me and my family.

“The DP World ILT20 helped prepare me for that level because you’re constantly competing against high-quality players. It gives you confidence that you belong on the international stage.”

The 26-year-old debuted for the UAE in April this year after a breakthrough period in franchise cricket. He first made headlines in Season 3 of the DP World ILT20 with match figures of 4 for 22 against Sharjah Warriorz and has continued to build on that promise since.

Across two seasons with the Desert Vipers, he has taken 24 wickets in 18 appearances, emerging as one of the most consistent UAE bowling options in the competition. He finished as the second-highest wicket-taker among UAE players with 17 wickets — and third overall — in a title-winning campaign for the Desert Vipers. He was also in contention for the Blue Belt, awarded to the best UAE player, which was eventually won by MI Emirates’ Muhammad Waseem.

Tanveer highlighted the value of sharing a dressing room with some of the game’s best players.

He said: “It’s not only about what happens in the matches; a lot of the learning happens during training sessions,