Dubai, UAE (January 14, 2025) – The Desert Vipers have joined forces with Balqis Capital for the upcoming season of the DP World ILT20.

Balqis Capital, a market leader in litigation funding and facilitating private credit opportunities for businesses, have become an Associate

Sponsor to the Vipers.

The Balqis Capital logo will appear on the team’s training and playing jerseys, and their branding will appear on the in-stadia big screens in Dubai and Sharjah and on the perimeter advertising boards at these venues during Vipers home matches.

Phil Oliver, the Chief Executive Officer of the Desert Vipers, said: “We are delighted to welcome Balqis Capital to the Desert Vipers family for this season’s DP World ILT20.

“Having a company of the stature of Balqis Capital in our corner for the tournament is something we can be proud of, and we look forward to their backing as we aim for a first title for the team.”

Balqis Capital assists institutions, financial advisers, family offices and companies in accessing litigation funding and private credit opportunities by using their extensive experience and network.

The company’s leadership team has more than 30 years of litigation funding and financial experience.

Commenting on the partnership, Balqis Capital said: “We are excited to be joining forces with the Desert Vipers.

“Balqis Capital is a market leader in our field of helping our clients source quality alternative assets, and we look forward to supporting the Desert Vipers as they seek to become market leaders in this season’s DP World ILT20.”

Balqis Capital assists businesses who need funding for their projects and cannot source the capital through other sources.

They focus on working with investors seeking diversification in their portfolios, either by generating a passive income or high growth opportunities which are exclusive to the Balqis Capital network and cannot be accessed elsewhere.

Litigation funding is a financial arrangement where a third-party funder covers the legal expenses of a claimant or plaintiff. Typically, funds are provided on a non recourse basis, meaning the funder only receives a portion of the settlement if the case is successful.

The Desert Vipers are one of six teams that take part in the UAE’s own annual Twenty20 cricket league, the DP World ILT20.

Owned by Lancer Capital, the Desert Vipers are one of six teams competing in the DP World ILT20 tournament held in the UAE during January and February. The Vipers were runners-up in the inaugural edition of the tournament in 2023.

The team is captained by New Zealand fast bowler Lockie Ferguson, with players including former England opening batter Alex Hales, West Indies middle-order powerhouse Sherfane Rutherford, and Sri Lanka all-rounder Wanindu Hasaranga linking up with the squad for a third consecutive season.

Pakistan stars Azam Khan and Fakhar Zaman, as well as England’s Dan Lawrence, bolster the batting line-up, while Mohammad Amir, the former Pakistan fast bowler, England all-rounder Sam Curran and Luke Wood, the England left-arm fast bowler spearhead the pace attack in the red and black colours.

The Vipers are pioneers of sustainability in professional cricket, prioritising eco-conscious operations and transparency in their carbon footprint, aiming to set a benchmark for global sports teams.

Tickets for all Vipers matches are available here.