DUBAI: The DP World ILT20 continues to strengthen as a competitive global league while playing a key role in the development of UAE and regional cricketers, according to former New Zealand international and tournament commentator Simon Doull.

“The standard in general has been great, and it’s getting better year-on-year. That’s one of the things that’s impressed me most,” he said.

Doull, who has been associated with the DP World ILT20 since the inaugural season, also credited the tournament for helping local talent.

“The standard of the local players is lifting, courtesy of being part of this tournament over the last two or three years. We’re seeing more of them being trusted with important roles, and that’s a real positive from this season,” Doull said.

“From a bowling point of view, I’ve been really impressed with Khuzaima Tanveer. He’s a guy I hadn’t seen much of before, but he’s got all the attributes to be a good international bowler when that time comes.

“He’s got good pace, good variations, and he’s used the facilities really well. He’s been a big part of why the Desert Vipers have been so strong this season.”

Doull pointed to consistent contributions from the experienced players. “You always look to your top-order players, and from my point of view Muhammad Waseem (335 runs and top scorer) has been very good again.”

He added: “From an all-rounder point of view, Sam Curran (323 runs) has been the standout for me. He’s contributed with both bat and ball, has seven wickets in the tournament and is scoring runs again.”

The former fast bowler believes the timing and structure of the tournament have worked well. “The window this year has been critical. It’s a great time of year to play and fits nicely into the calendar. I think it will only continue to improve.”

Doull welcomed the league’s expanding regional footprint, particularly the inclusion of one player from Kuwait and Saudi Arabia in each franchise.

“The league started with a focus on developing UAE players, and now it’s expanding into regional growth. Being involved with franchises, training around experienced players, and taking that learning back home is crucial for lifting standards,” he said.

“Players must earn their spots. But standards won’t improve unless they’re included in some way. Over the next few years, you might see more opportunities coming as that development continues.”

Doull also praised the DP World ILT20 Player Development Initiative, which brought in seven African cricketers into franchise environments this season, for potentially impacting the broader ecosystem on the continent.

“For any young player who gets that opportunity, being able to train alongside international stars like Kieron Pollard, Phil Salt, Jason Roy and Liam Livingstone is massive.

“You pick their brains, have conversations after net sessions about what it takes to get a wicket against that type of player, and you take that knowledge and experience back with you to help others improve.”

The Dubai Capitals’ Waqar Salamkheil has emerged as the top wicket-taker with 17, and his left-arm wrist spin has put him on track to win the White Belt (Best Bowler) for a second time.

Doull is encouraged by the continued relevance of spin bowling in the T20 format.

“We once thought T20 cricket might be the death of spin, but that hasn’t been the case at all. Every franchise wants quality wrist spin, and these grounds are a great size to utilize it properly,” he added.

The top five run-getters this season have strike-rates below 135. Referring to this trend, Doull underlined the importance of cricketing awareness in modern T20 batting.

“It’s all about situational awareness. In the first innings, strike rate is vital. In a chase, if you win the game, it doesn’t bother me at all.”