Brief
Farooqi sets ILT20 auction record
Farooqi's $380,000 move broke two earlier records set the same day at the Season 5 ILT20 auction in Dubai.
By Felo News Desk · Published
Afghanistan fast bowler Fazalhaq Farooqi became the costliest player in DP World ILT20 auction history after signing with MI Emirates for US$380,000, Gulf News reported on October 1.
The Season 5 auction in Dubai saw the record broken three times in one day. Gulf Giants first retained wicket‑keeper‑batter Rahmanullah Gurbaz for US$310,000, then bought England all‑rounder Liam Livingstone for US$350,000. Farooqi’s deal later eclipsed both, establishing a new high.
Farooqi returns to MI Emirates, the franchise he has represented since the tournament’s inception. He was a key part of the side that won the Season 2 title in 2024, taking 17 wickets in eight matches at an economy of 7.66, including a 4‑31 spell against the Desert Vipers that secured a 30‑run victory.
His previous performances have helped MI Emirates defend their title in subsequent seasons, and the record fee underscores his value to the team’s bowling attack.
Key facts
- Fazalhaq Farooqi signed for US$380,000, the highest ILT20 auction fee ever. (gulfnews.com)
- The record was broken three times on the same day at the Season 5 auction. (gulfnews.com)
- Previous records that day were US$310,000 for Rahmanullah Gurbaz and US$350,000 for Liam Livingstone. (gulfnews.com)
- Farooqi helped MI Emirates win the Season 2 title in 2024 with 17 wickets in eight matches. (gulfnews.com)
- The auction took place in Dubai at the ICC Academy Indoors on October 1, 2026. (gulfnews.com)
Sources
- [1] gulfnews.com — originally reported as “Fazalhaq Farooqi Sets ILT20 Auction Record with $380,000 MI Emirates Deal”
