Saudi Arabia to Launch Professional Cricket League
Saudi Arabia is preparing to launch its own professional cricket league. This move is part of a larger plan to invest in international cricket, in collaboration with the Public Investment Fund (PIF).
As part of its cricket vision, the Kingdom will develop world-class stadiums in Riyadh, Jeddah, and Yanbu. These facilities aim to provide top-tier infrastructure for players and fans.
For the first time, Saudi Arabia hosted the Indian Premier League (IPL) mega auction. Held at the Abadi Al-Johar Arena in Jeddah, the event attracted global attention as top players signed with teams for India’s T20 league.
Prince Saud bin Mishal Al-Saud, chairman of the Saudi Arabian Cricket Federation, emphasized the Kingdom’s ambitious cricket plans. He stated, “We aim to make cricket a major sport in Saudi Arabia while creating our own professional league.”
The Prince highlighted efforts to enhance cricket infrastructure, saying, “We are developing facilities in Riyadh, Yanbu, and Jeddah to support the growth of the sport.” He also praised government support, calling it a key factor in establishing Saudi Arabia as a global hub for sporting events.
Prince Saud mentioned that hosting the IPL auction is just the beginning. He hinted at more initiatives in the pipeline, saying, “We are determined to achieve our big ambition and excited about the future.”
The two-day auction, which started on Sunday, featured 574 players. Teams like Chennai Super Kings, Mumbai Indians, and others finalized their squads. The IPL, entering its 18th season next year, sees Saudi Arabia’s involvement as a significant step forward.
Saudi Arabia’s entry into cricket highlights its commitment to becoming a key player in global sports. With new leagues, infrastructure, and events, the Kingdom is positioning itself as a destination for cricket enthusiasts worldwide.
