Abu Dhabi’s new Yas Lions franchise will feature international cricket stars, including Jason Holder, as the team prepares for its first Abu Dhabi T10 League season with backing from several UAE-based businesses.
Yas Lions prepare for Abu Dhabi T10 debut
The Yas Lions are preparing to make their debut in the Abu Dhabi T10 League, bringing an international line-up of cricket talent to Zayed Cricket Stadium.
Led by West Indies all-rounder Jason Holder as its Icon Player, the franchise has assembled an 18-member squad featuring players from seven international cricket boards.
The team will also have support from commercial partners across the financial technology, real estate and activewear sectors as it begins its journey in the UAE’s T10 cricket competition.
International cricket stars lead the squad
The Yas Lions squad includes several established names in international cricket.
Alongside Holder, the team features left-arm spinner Akeal Hosein, England’s David Willey, Sri Lanka’s Dasun Shanaka and wicketkeeper-batter Andries Gous.
Robin Uthappa has joined the franchise as Team Director and Batting Coach.
Speaking about the team’s preparations, Uthappa said: “T10 leaves no room for hesitation. With 60 balls in an innings, every decision carries weight, and every player must be ready to influence the game. We have assembled a group that combines leadership, skill and hunger. Jason Holder brings calm authority, while Akeal Hosein, David Willey, Dasun Shanaka and Andries Gous give us proven ability in decisive moments. The squad has prepared with intent, and we are ready to make a strong start in the tournament.”
UAE businesses support Yas Lions
The franchise has secured several commercial partnerships ahead of its debut season.
Online trading platform BitDelta Pro has joined as the title sponsor, with its branding appearing on the team’s match kit and dugout.
Other partners include D24 Fintech as an associate sponsor, alongside real estate brokerage Union Square House and property developer Mantra. Activewear brand Spofit365 has joined as the official kitting partner.
The partnerships bring together businesses from different industries as the franchise looks to establish its commercial presence in the UAE and international markets.
Yas Lions aim to build a long-term Abu Dhabi presence
The franchise’s owners have outlined ambitions that extend beyond its first tournament appearance, with plans to develop a lasting sporting brand connected to Abu Dhabi and its cricket fans.
Jeetu Kataria, entrepreneur, investor and co-owner of the Yas Lions, said: “For me, Yas Lions brings together a lifelong passion for cricket and a long-term belief in the UAE. We are not simply building a team for one tournament. Our ambition is to build a competitive franchise and a lasting sporting brand from Abu Dhabi, with a strong connection to its fans and a clear vision for the future.The support of our partners is an important part of that journey. These partnerships reflect a shared belief in what Yas Lions can become, and we look forward to building meaningful, long-term value together.”
Co-owner Sachin Tharani also highlighted the role of sport in bringing communities together.
He said: “Abu Dhabi has given Yas Lions a home, and we do not take that trust lightly. I have seen what sports can do for a person. It teaches discipline, gives people confidence and brings communities together in ways few things can. I see the Yas Lions as our chance to pass that on. I intend to help build a franchise that people can believe in, not only because of the cricket but also because of the way it shows up for its fans and community. We want people in this city to see Yas Lions as their team, a place where talent is respected and where everyone feels a sense of belonging. That is the standard we intend to hold ourselves to every season.”
tanvir@dubainewsweek.com
