Saudi Arabia’s Grand Slam-Style T20 League: A New Rival to the IPL? More Details Emerge

With a $500 million investment, Saudi Arabia aims to revolutionize T20 cricket, but ICC approval and global integration remain key challenges.

March 16, 2025: Saudi Arabia is reportedly gearing up to launch a groundbreaking T20 league, backed by SRJ Sports Investments, with an initial investment of $500 million. The proposed league, spearheaded by Australian cricket figure Neil Maxwell, aims to introduce a Grand Slam-style format, with matches held in four different global locations.

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If successfully implemented, this eight-team competition could mark one of the biggest shifts in modern cricket, offering an alternative revenue model to sustain Test cricket while expanding the sport beyond its traditional powerhouses—India, Australia, and England.

A New Contender to IPL’s Dominance?

Saudi Arabia’s ambitious T20 league is designed to fit into the existing global cricket calendar, minimizing clashes with major leagues like the Indian Premier League (IPL) and Big Bash League (BBL). The final is expected to be held in Saudi Arabia, with franchise teams from Australia and other cricketing nations participating.

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Crucially, both men’s and women’s tournaments are planned, reinforcing the expansion of cricket on a global scale.

With Saudi Arabia’s recent aggressive push into sports—including securing the 2034 FIFA World Cup and investing in LIV Golf—this T20 league aligns with the country’s vision to establish itself as a major cricket hub.

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Financial & Structural Impact on Global Cricket

The proposed league could redefine cricket’s financial ecosystem, particularly by offering financial stability to smaller cricketing nations. Unlike traditional leagues that benefit only the wealthiest boards, Saudi Arabia’s model aims to distribute revenue more evenly, potentially reducing financial disparities in international cricket.

ICC Approval & Challenges Ahead

While the league’s financial backing is strong, it faces significant regulatory hurdles. Approval from the International Cricket Council (ICC) and major governing bodies—including Cricket Australia (CA)—remains a critical challenge.

The final decision could rest with ICC Chairman Jay Shah, whose stance on Indian player participation will be crucial in shaping the league’s global appeal.

Saudi Arabia’s Growing Influence in Cricket

Saudi Arabia’s rising stake in sports broadcasting, including its involvement with DAZN, strengthens its position in cricket negotiations. If successfully executed, this T20 league could:

✅ Expand cricket beyond traditional markets
✅ Create alternative revenue models to sustain Test cricket
✅ Offer players lucrative new opportunities
✅ Challenge the IPL’s dominance as the premier T20 tournament

However, without ICC backing and key cricketing nations on board, Saudi Arabia’s bold vision for cricket’s future may face an uphill battle before becoming a reality.

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Saudi Arabia T20 League, IPL rival, Grand Slam T20, Saudi cricket investment, ICC approval, T20 cricket expansion, Cricket Saudi Arabia, Jay Shah ICC decision, Cricket Australia, SRJ Sports Investments