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The Abu Dhabi Cricket & Sports Hub has assumed majority ownership and commercial rights control of the Abu Dhabi T10, introducing a government-backed structure with ten-year franchise licences, revised squad rules and stronger governance. The 2026 season will run from 7 to 20 November at Zayed Cricket Stadium in Abu Dhabi.

Abu Dhabi, June 9: Abu Dhabi Cricket & Sports Hub (ADCSH) has taken majority ownership and commercial rights control of the Abu Dhabi T10. The move turns cricket’s fastest format into an Abu Dhabi-owned and managed competition, supported by the Abu Dhabi Sports Council (ADSC) and the Emirates Cricket Board (ECB).

Launched in 2017 by Shaji Ul Mulk, the T10 will now be run as a long-term national sporting asset. ADCSH has set out its priorities for this stage as stronger governance, improved player structuring and welfare, and a sharper commercial and broadcast platform. The aim is to give teams, players and partners greater certainty following the concerns raised in earlier seasons.

Matt Boucher, Chief Executive of ADCSH and the Abu Dhabi T10, said: “The Abu Dhabi T10 was born out of Shaji’s bold ambition and has grown into one of the world’s coolest cricket properties. We absolutely love the event and are incredibly excited at putting in place the foundations for its next stage of growth to ensure we reach the highest summit possible. We know there is important work ahead across several key pillars: strengthened governance, improved player structuring and a more decisive and enhanced commercial and broadcast platform.”

Under the new licence from the Emirates Cricket Board, the tournament will offer ten-year licences to a selection of existing teams alongside new international franchise partners. Eight franchises and prospective ownership groups will be invited to take part through a formal Invitation to Tender process, with further details to be announced.