Jason Holder named Abu Dhabi Knight Riders captain ahead of ILT20 2025-26

Published - 01 Nov 2025, 17:58 IST | Updated - 01 Nov 2025, 17:58 IST

The Abu Dhabi Knight Riders (ADKR) have announced the appointment of Jason Holder as their new captain ahead of the upcoming 2025-26 edition of the International League T20 (ILT20) in the UAE. The West Indies all-rounder replaces T20 veteran Sunil Narine, who led the side in the previous seasons.

Holder joined the franchise earlier this year for the ILT20 2025 season and quickly made his mark with impressive all-round performances. Despite the team finishing at the bottom of the points table under Narine’s leadership, Holder stood out, claiming 17 wickets and scoring 126 runs at a blistering strike rate of 180. His consistent displays with both bat and ball have earned him the franchise’s trust to lead the side into a new chapter.

Under Narine’s captaincy, Abu Dhabi Knight Riders managed only three wins and suffered seven defeats in 10 matches during the 2025 season, finishing sixth in the six-team tournament. The team also struggled in the 2023 and 2024 editions, finishing at the bottom in both campaigns. The continued underperformance likely prompted the management to bring in fresh leadership ahead of the new season, hoping to turn the team’s fortunes around.

Holder will lead a star-studded ADKR squad, featuring marquee players such as Andre Russell, Liam Livingstone, Phil Salt, Sherfane Rutherford, and Sunil Narine. His leadership, combined with his vast T20 experience across multiple leagues worldwide, is expected to bring renewed balance and energy to the side.

In international T20s, Holder has accumulated 702 runs and bagged 94 wickets in 81 matches, showcasing his versatility and match-winning abilities. Having represented over nine T20 franchises globally, his experience will be invaluable for ADKR’s campaign.

The Abu Dhabi Knight Riders will kick off their ILT20 2025-26 season against Sharjah Warriorz in Sharjah  on December 3.