Saudi Cricket Advances Toward 2028 T20 World Cup

Saudi Arabia’s cricket team secured the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup Asia Sub-Regional Qualifier B in October 2026, claiming the title with five straight wins and booking a place in the next qualification stage set for 2027. The result puts the Kingdom a step closer to the 2028 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup.

The Saudi Arabian Cricket Federation is backing the on-field progress with a broad development push covering technical programs, player pathways, infrastructure, and international competition. A dedicated training center has been established in Taif to support player development and high-performance preparation.

On infrastructure, the federation and the Pakistan Cricket Board signed a memorandum to build an international-standard cricket stadium in Jeddah, with further facility expansion planned for Riyadh and Dammam. The moves aim to give the sport a stronger home base across the Kingdom’s major cities.

Grassroots participation is already significant. Saudi Arabia’s National Cricket Championship spans 14 regional associations, 405 teams, and roughly 7,500 players, reflecting a growing community of players and fans nationwide.

The federation has also announced the Dunes T20 League, described as the Kingdom’s first professional T20 competition, featuring six teams and international players. For residents and expats — many of whom follow cricket closely — the new league and expanded venues promise more opportunities to play, watch, and support the sport locally.

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