Noor Ahmad is the newest addition to the Desert Vipers squad for the upcoming ILT20 2025-26 season, stepping in as a direct replacement for Sri Lankan star Wanindu Hasaranga, who will miss the tournament due to domestic commitments in Sri Lanka. The move has already sparked conversations across cricket circles—especially given Noor’s rising stock as one of the most exciting young spin talents in world cricket.
Table of Contents
- Noor Ahmad’s Signing: The Details
- Replacing a Star: Wanindu Hasaranga’s Absence
- Why Noor Ahmad Could Be a Game-Changer
- Desert Vipers’ Strategy for ILT20 2025-26
- Player Profile: Noor Ahmad at a Glance
- Sources
Noor Ahmad’s Signing: The Details
The Desert Vipers confirmed the signing of Afghan leg-spinner Noor Ahmad for the third season of the International League T20 (ILT20), set to begin in January 2026. The 20-year-old joins the UAE-based franchise after a breakout 2024-25 season that saw him shine in both international cricket and global T20 leagues.
Noor’s inclusion comes as part of a mid-season roster adjustment permitted under ILT20 regulations, allowing teams to replace unavailable players before the official squad deadline.
Replacing a Star: Wanindu Hasaranga’s Absence
Wanindu Hasaranga, Sri Lanka’s premier all-rounder and a fan favorite in the ILT20, was originally slated to return to the Desert Vipers after a strong showing in the previous edition. However, Sri Lanka Cricket has scheduled a packed domestic calendar—including the Major Clubs T20 and first-class tournaments—during the ILT20 window, making Hasaranga unavailable.
While losing a player of Hasaranga’s caliber is a blow, the Vipers’ management expressed confidence in Noor’s ability to fill the void, citing his deceptive variations and composure under pressure.
Why Noor Ahmad Could Be a Game-Changer
Noor Ahmad isn’t just a like-for-like replacement—he brings a different, yet equally potent, skill set. Known for his sharp googlies and excellent control in the powerplay and death overs, Noor has already represented Afghanistan in all formats and turned heads in the Caribbean Premier League (CPL) and the Big Bash League (BBL).
In the 2024 CPL, he took 15 wickets at an economy of just 6.8—an impressive feat for a spinner in high-scoring Caribbean conditions. His adaptability across pitches and pressure situations makes him a strategic asset for the Vipers, who finished runners-up in ILT20 2024.
Desert Vipers’ Strategy for ILT20 2025-26
With a core group that includes Colin Munro, Sikandar Raza, and Tom Curran, the Desert Vipers are clearly betting on a balanced mix of experience and youth. Adding Noor Ahmad bolsters their spin department, which could prove decisive on the slower UAE tracks.
Coach Shane Watson hinted at a “spin-heavy approach” during pre-season interviews, and Noor’s arrival aligns perfectly with that vision. The team is also expected to finalize one more overseas signing before the draft closes next month.
Player Profile: Noor Ahmad at a Glance
| Attribute | Detail |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Noor Ahmad |
| Age | 20 (as of 2025) |
| Nationality | Afghanistan |
| Bowling Style | Left-arm wrist spin (Chinaman) |
| Recent Leagues | CPL, BBL, Shpageeza Cricket League |
| International Debut | T20I: 2023 vs UAE |
Fans can expect Noor to wear the number 18 jersey—a number he’s stuck with since his U19 days.
Sources
ESPNcricinfo: “Noor Ahmad signs with Desert Vipers for ILT20 2025-26”