The Abu Dhabi Knight Riders have announced their full squad for ILT20 Season 4 (2025-26), blending global T20 superstars with exciting young talents. Known for their explosive power-hitters and versatile all-rounders, the Knight Riders are once again aiming for glory in the UAE.
With legends like Andre Russell, Sunil Narine, and Alex Hales, combined with dynamic new auction signings, this squad is built for impact. Let’s take a closer look at the complete team list, auction details, and squad analysis.
Abu Dhabi Knight Riders Squad for ILT20 2025-26
| Player Name | Role | Signing Type |
|---|---|---|
| Liam Livingstone | All-rounder | Retained |
| Alex Hales | Batter | Retained |
| Sunil Narine | All-rounder | Retained |
| Andre Russell | All-rounder | Retained |
| Phil Salt | Wicketkeeper-Batter | Retained |
| Olly Stone | Bowler (Pace) | Retained |
| Sherfane Rutherford | Batter / All-rounder | Retained |
| Alishan Sharafu | Batter | Retained |
| Michael Pepper | Wicketkeeper-Batter | Auction – $40k |
| George Garton | All-rounder (Pace) | Auction – $10k |
| Brandon McMullen | All-rounder | Auction – $110k |
| Ibrar Ahmed | Bowler (Spin) | Auction – $22k |
| Ajay Kumar | Batter | Auction – $10k |
| Adnan Idrees Muhammad | Batter | Auction – $10k |
| Abdul Manan Ali | All-rounder | Auction – $10k |
| Mayank Chowdary | All-rounder | Auction – $10k |
| Khary Pierre | Bowler (Left-arm spin) | Auction – $10k |
| Shadley Van Schalkwyk | Bowler (Pace) | Auction – $10k |
| Unmukt Chand | Batter | Auction – $40k |
💰 Total Spent at Auction: USD 1,457,000
Key Updates for ILT20 2025-26
- Superstars Retained: The Knight Riders have kept their backbone intact with Russell, Narine, Livingstone, and Hales.
- Powerful Auction Moves: Brandon McMullen’s $110k signing shows their intent to strengthen the middle order.
- Local UAE Talent: Players like Alishan Sharafu and Mayank Chowdary give the team balance and adaptability.
- Experienced T20 Pros: Unmukt Chand and George Garton bring international exposure at bargain prices.
Squad Analysis – Abu Dhabi Knight Riders
Strengths:
- Explosive Batting: With Hales, Salt, Rutherford, and Russell, the top and middle order can change games in minutes.
- All-rounder Depth: Narine, Livingstone, Russell, McMullen, and Janat-style utility give flexibility in every phase.
- Spin Power: Narine, Ibrar Ahmed, and Khary Pierre offer variety on UAE’s spin-friendly tracks.
Weaknesses:
- Pace Bowling Depth: Olly Stone leads the pace attack, but the lack of high-profile fast bowlers could be exposed.
- Consistency Issues: Reliance on individual brilliance might hurt if star players don’t click together.
Can Abu Dhabi Knight Riders Shine in ILT20 2025-26?
With one of the most entertaining squads in the league, the Knight Riders are among the fan favorites this season. If their all-rounders deliver and the local talent steps up, Abu Dhabi could be genuine title contenders. Expect fireworks, big sixes, and thrilling finishes whenever they take the field.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Who is the captain of Abu Dhabi Knight Riders for ILT20 2025-26?]
The official captain announcement is yet to be made, but Sunil Narine or Andre Russell are expected to lead.
Q2: How much did Abu Dhabi Knight Riders spend at the ILT20 auction?
They spent USD 1,457,000 at the player auction.
Q3: Which big international players are in the squad?
The squad features Andre Russell, Sunil Narine, Alex Hales, Liam Livingstone, and Phil Salt.
Q4: Where will Abu Dhabi Knight Riders play their ILT20 matches?
Matches will be held across UAE venues — Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Sharjah.
Q5: Do the Knight Riders have UAE-based players?
Yes, they included Alishan Sharafu and Mayank Chowdary among their local signings.
