Yas Lions have become the latest franchise confirmed for the 2026 Abu Dhabi T10, with Jason Holder signed as their icon player and Robin Uthappa appointed Team Director.
The new team, owned by Jeetu Kataria, will make its tournament debut at Zayed Cricket Stadium when the competition runs from November 7 to 20.
Their arrival follows the confirmation of defending champions UAE Bulls earlier this month as the Abu Dhabi T10 prepares for its 2026 season.
Former England international David Willey and USA wicketkeeper-batter Andries Gous have joined Yas Lions as Platinum signings. Further additions will follow, with the official player draft taking place in Abu Dhabi on September 30.
Uthappa will oversee recruitment and the cricket side of the new franchise. The former India international was part of the squad that won the inaugural ICC Men’s T20 World Cup in 2007 and retired from professional cricket in 2022.
“There is a lot to like about starting a franchise from scratch, because you get to build its identity around clarity, process and performance from the very first conversation,” Uthappa said.
“T10 cricket rewards players who can function under pressure rather than avoid it, and that is exactly the mindset we want running through this squad.”
Holder gives the Lions an experienced all-round option. The former West Indies captain offers power with the bat and a seam-bowling option, while Willey brings extensive white-ball experience and was part of England’s T20 World Cup-winning squad in 2022.
Gous completes the first group of direct signings. The 32-year-old has represented the United States in international cricket and will add another top-order batting option while also providing cover behind the stumps.
Uthappa said the early signings had given the franchise a strong base ahead of the draft.
“Our Direct Signings include match winners with plenty of experience, class and versatility,” he said. “I am looking forward to working with this group and building something we can be proud of, a team that competes hard and helps grow the game.”
Yas Lions join Arabian Aces, Emirates Eagles, UAE Bulls, United Tigers and Royal Desert Champions in the line-up announced for the 2026 competition.
