Yas Lions outline long-term vision after making debut at Abu Dhabi T10

Yas Lions began their journey in the Abu Dhabi T10 League with an encouraging batting display against UAE Bulls in the season's opening fixture, posting 120/3 before the Bulls chased down the target to secure a seven-wicket victory.

Making their debut in the competition, the Lions showcased their batting potential in a high-intensity contest, marking the beginning of their campaign in one of cricket's fastest formats. While the opening result did not go their way, the franchise will look to build on the experience as it seeks to establish itself among the tournament's competing teams.

The Lions have assembled an 18-player squad featuring international talent from seven cricket boards.

West Indies all-rounder Jason Holder leads the side as its Icon Player, supported by an experienced group that includes left-arm spinner Akeal Hosein, England's David Willey, Sri Lanka's Dasun Shanaka and wicketkeeper-batter Andries Gous.

Beyond their ambitions on the field, Yas Lions is also laying the groundwork for a long-term presence in professional franchise cricket through a growing portfolio of corporate partnerships. Bringing together businesses across financial markets, fintech, real estate, technology and activewear, the franchise is building a commercial ecosystem to support its sporting ambitions and strengthen its presence across regional and international markets.

BitDelta Pro, an online trading platform, has joined the franchise as title sponsor, with its branding featuring prominently on the team's match kit and dugout.

D24 Fintech, a financial technology and trading infrastructure provider connecting traditional and digital financial markets, has come on board as an associate sponsor.

The commercial portfolio also includes Union Square House, a real estate brokerage firm, and Mantra, a real estate development company, as associate sponsors, alongside activewear brand Spofit365 as the official Kitting Partner.

The partnerships represent an important step in the franchise's wider vision of developing a professionally structured sporting property with ambitions extending beyond its inaugural season. The Abu Dhabi T10 League, which is expected to reach approximately 180 million viewers worldwide, generate $512 million in media value and deliver 687 million social media impressions, offers the new franchise a significant platform to build its brand and engage with a global cricket audience.

Jeetu Kataria, Entrepreneur, Investor and Co-owner of Yas Lions, said: "Our vision for Yas Lions goes beyond competing in a cricket tournament. We see an opportunity to build a professionally managed sporting franchise with a strong foundation, a clear identity and long-term ambitions. Bringing together partners from different sectors is an important step in that direction.

“We are looking to create an ecosystem where sport, business and community come together, while building a franchise that can grow its relevance and value well beyond its inaugural season."

Sachin Tharani, Co-owner of Yas Lions, said: "Abu Dhabi has given Yas Lions a home, and we do not take that trust lightly. I have seen what sports can do for a person. It teaches discipline, gives people confidence and brings communities together in ways few things can. I see Yas Lions as our opportunity to pass that on. We intend to build a franchise that people can believe in, not only because of cricket but also because of the way it engages with its fans and community. We want people in this city to see Yas Lions as their team, a place where talent is respected and everyone feels a sense of belonging."

Robin Uthappa, Team Director and Batting Coach of Yas Lions, said: "T10 leaves no room for hesitation. With 60 balls in an innings, every decision carries weight, and every player must be ready to influence the game. We have assembled a group that combines leadership, skill and hunger. Jason Holder brings calm authority, while Akeal Hosein, David Willey, Dasun Shanaka and Andries Gous give us proven ability in decisive moments. Our opening fixture has given the group valuable experience, and we will look to build on that as the tournament progresses.