|| Desk Report ||

UAE’s new T20 league has already grabbed the headlines as former South Africa cricketer Ab de Villiers has decided to become an ambassador for the league. Accordingly, de Villiers rejected the chance to feature in the Big Bash League as the dates for both these competitions clash towards the end of this year.

De Villiers won’t play in the UAE league, as he would be present there merely as an ambassador for the newfound league. By doing this, they have displayed their mettle and star-attraction power, effectively luring an acclaimed cricketer such as de Villiers.

The former South African captain issued a statement saying, “UAE T20x is a really exciting addition to the cricketing calendar. Its ambition to give more young, emerging cricketers, from around the world, the chance to play this format alongside some of the world's best, is what really appealed to me.”

Australia’s cricket board has refrained from allowing its players to participate in this league, as the Big Bash League is scheduled to take place at around the same time. However, the likes of Mitchell Johnson, Steve Smith and David Warner are being touted to play in this new league.

Johnson has already announced his retirement from the BBL owing to the expansive length of the season. The likes of Smith and Warner could surely not feature in any ICC-organized competitive match for a year due to their involvement in the ball-tampering saga this year.