DUBAI: The UAE and Desert Vipers’ fast bowler Khuzaima Tanveer believes the DP World ILT20 has played a significant role in his development, helping him grow as a player through exposure to some of the biggest names in world cricket.
Having progressed from an emerging talent to a capped UAE international, the right-arm pacer reflected on the impact the league has had on his journey.
He said: “Representing the UAE was a proud moment for me and it’s something every young cricketer dreams about. Getting my UAE passport and then going on to play for the national team were very special milestones for me and my family.
“The DP World ILT20 helped prepare me for that level because you’re constantly competing against high-quality players. It gives you confidence that you belong on the international stage.”
The 26-year-old debuted for the UAE in April this year after a breakthrough period in franchise cricket. He first made headlines in Season 3 of the DP World ILT20 with match figures of 4 for 22 against Sharjah Warriorz and has continued to build on that promise since.
Across two seasons with the Desert Vipers, he has taken 24 wickets in 18 appearances, emerging as one of the most consistent UAE bowling options in the competition. He finished as the second-highest wicket-taker among UAE players with 17 wickets — and third overall — in a title-winning campaign for the Desert Vipers. He was also in contention for the Blue Belt, awarded to the best UAE player, which was eventually won by MI Emirates’ Muhammad Waseem.
Tanveer highlighted the value of sharing a dressing room with some of the game’s best players.
He said: “It’s not only about what happens in the matches; a lot of the learning happens during training sessions, team meetings, and conversations around the group.
“The coaches and senior players are always willing to share their experiences. I was fortunate to have the likes of Sam Curran, Naseem Shah, and Lockie Ferguson in our team. Even small pieces of advice from such players add up over time and help you become a better cricketer.”
Tanveer’s bowling action has often drawn comparisons with Pakistan’s Waqar Younis, though the pacer is quick to downplay any similarities.
He said: “I don’t think anyone can compare themselves to someone like Waqar Younis. He’s a legend of the game and someone every fast bowler looks up to. If people see similarities, I take it as a compliment, but my focus is on becoming the best version of myself.
“The DP World ILT20 has given me opportunities that I could only dream of as a young cricketer. Being able to interact with icons like Waqar Younis and Wasim Akram, and hear their thoughts on the game firsthand, has been a huge privilege.”
In contention for a regular spot in the UAE squad, Tanveer is determined to continue raising his standards in international cricket and at the DP World ILT20.
He added: “Once you represent the UAE, you carry extra responsibility. People expect more from you and you expect more from yourself. My aim is to keep improving, perform consistently, and contribute whenever I get the opportunity.”
He also pointed to the UAE’s captain Muhammad Waseem as an example to local players.
He said: “He’s a great example for all UAE players in the DP World ILT20. Season after season he has performed against some of the best players in the world and shown that UAE cricketers can succeed at this level.”
Looking ahead to Season 5 of the DP World ILT20, Tanveer is eager to make the most of the opportunities that come his way.
He said: “Every season brings new challenges and new opportunities to learn. The standard of the competition is very high and as a player that’s exactly what you want. My goal is to keep improving, contribute to my team, and continue making the most of the opportunities that the DP World ILT20 provides.”
