The Abu Dhabi T10 has opened applications for franchise ownership ahead of the 2026 season, inviting investors, sports organisations and business leaders to bid for teams in the competition.
Applications opened on July 3 and will close on July 16. The successful bidders are expected to be announced in August, before player registrations and the draft begin. The tournament will be held from November 7 to 20 at the Zayed Cricket Stadium in Abu Dhabi.
The league has invited bids for ownership of eight franchises. Each successful bidder will receive a 50-year ownership licence for one franchise. These eight teams will be part of a 12-team competition, while the remaining four franchises are not included in the current bidding process.
The selection process will take place in two stages. Interested parties must first submit an expression of interest. Shortlisted applicants will then move to the next stage, where they will receive more detailed commercial and operational information before the final selections are made.
Global consulting firm Deloitte has been appointed to oversee the process independently. Applicants will be assessed on factors including financial strength, governance, reputation, operational experience and their long-term plans for helping develop the league.
The bidding process follows a major change in the tournament's ownership earlier this year. Abu Dhabi Cricket & Sports Hub took majority ownership and commercial control of the league after founder Shaji Ul Mulk sold his controlling stake. The tournament is backed by the Abu Dhabi Sports Council and supported by the Emirates Cricket Board.
"The opening of the process marks another important milestone in the next phase of the Abu Dhabi T10," chief executive Matt Boucher said. He added that the league was looking for long-term partners who could help grow the tournament while maintaining high standards of governance and transparency.
Also Read: Five non-Full Member standouts from the 2025 Abu Dhabi T10
The T10 League was founded by Shaji Ul Mulk in 2017 and was first played in Sharjah. The tournament was created as a 10-over competition, with matches lasting around 90 minutes. After being staged in Sharjah and Dubai in its early years, Abu Dhabi secured exclusive hosting rights in 2019. The competition was then renamed the Abu Dhabi T10 and has been held at the Zayed Cricket Stadium ever since.
Eight teams took part in the 2025 edition of the tournament - Ajman Titans, Aspin Stallions, Deccan Gladiators, Northern Warriors, Quetta Qavalry, Royal Champs, UAE Bulls, Vista Riders.
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