Muhammad Waseem becomes most expensive UAE player in ILT20 history

UAE cricket captain Muhammad Waseem has become the most expensive local player in the DP World International League T20 (ILT20) history after MI Emirates secured his services for $210,000 (Dh771,000) for the upcoming fifth season. The franchise utilized its Right-to-Match (RTM) option at the player auction to retain the opening batter, surpassing previous valuation benchmarks for domestic talent. Top valuations for UAE talent The record-breaking bid for Waseem leads a surge in franchise spending on UAE-based players, with five other cricketers securing contracts exceeding $70,000. Abu Dhabi Knight Riders committed $110,000 for Alishan Sharafu and $95,000 for fast bowler Muhammad Rohid. Dubai Capitals matched that figure by signing Aayan Khan for $95,000, while Desert Vipers acquired Khuzaima Bin Tanveer for $75,000 and wicketkeeper-batter Vriitya Aravind for $70,000. Waseem, the third-highest run-scorer in ILT20 history with 1,241 runs, is currently the league's most prolific UAE player. His statistics include 68 sixes across 46 appearances, trailing only international stars Nicholas Pooran and Alex Hales in total maximums hit within the competition. Pathway to professionalization The spike in valuations follows the ILT20 Season 5 Player Auction, marking a shift in how franchises value domestic players as central assets rather than mandatory squad additions. This market movement directly affects the 11 UAE players who secured contracts during the latest draft, providing…