Abu Dhabi: Star power lit up the Zayed Cricket Stadium as the 2025 Abu Dhabi T10 lifted the curtain for its latest edition. The icon players and captains of all eight franchise teams were in attendance for the pre-tournament press conference, including Kieron Pollard (UAE Bulls), Thisara Perera (Northern Warriors), Shakib Al Hasan (Royal Champs), Faf du Plessis (Vista Riders), Sam Billings (Aspin Stallions), Liam Livingstone (Quetta Qavalry), Nicholas Pooran (Deccan Gladiators), and Moeen Ali (Ajman Titans).
The excitement was palpable as the star-studded lineup discussed the season ahead. The players expressed genuine enthusiasm for the explosive T10 format, highlighting how its condensed nature brings out aggressive, entertaining cricket that keeps fans on the edge of their seats from the first ball to the last. They also spoke about their eagerness to compete at the iconic venue and praised the tournament’s ability to bring together top talent from around the globe. With T10’s unique blend of strategic depth and high-octane action, the group conveyed confidence that this year’s edition will deliver unforgettable moments for cricket fans worldwide.
Speaking ahead of the season opener, Shaji Ul Mulk, Chairman of Mulk Holdings and T10 Global Sports, said: “We are thrilled to commence yet another season of the Abu Dhabi T10. T10 is rapidly becoming one of the most engaging formats, and with some of cricket’s biggest superstars in action for this edition once again, I am certain it will be bigger than ever before.”
Matt Boucher, CEO of Abu Dhabi Cricket & Sports Hub, echoed the sentiment and said: “We’re delighted to welcome fans back for the 2025 Abu Dhabi T10. This tournament delivers world-class entertainment, and with the calibre of players assembling again, we’re confident this season will raise the bar even higher. The Abu Dhabi Cricket & Sports Hub is proud to host an event that continues to grow in global appeal and showcases cricket in its most exciting format.”
The tournament will feature a total of 32 high-octane matches across 13 days, showcasing the fastest format in cricket where each team bats for just 10 overs, delivering explosive 90-minute contests. The opening match will see Quetta Qavalry take on Northern Warriors, followed by an exciting clash between the defending champions, Deccan Gladiators, and the UAE Bulls.
The tournament follows a round-robin format, where each team faces every other team during the first stage. After the completion of 28 group matches, the top four teams on the points table will advance to the playoffs.
The playoff stage begins on Saturday, November 29, 2025, with Qualifier 1 (1st vs 2nd) and the Eliminator (3rd vs 4th). On Sunday, November 30, 2025, Qualifier 2 will be played between the winner of the Eliminator and the loser of Qualifier 1, followed by the Final later that day to crown the champion.
All matches will be played at the iconic Zayed Cricket Stadium in Abu Dhabi, renowned for its fast outfield and electric atmosphere that perfectly complements the high-intensity T10 format.
