Brief
Gulf Giants set ILT20 auction record twice with Gurbaz and Livingstone signings
The Dubai franchise used its Right‑to‑Match option and a new purchase to set two successive auction highs at the Season 5 DP World ILT20 player auction.
By Felo News Desk · Published
Gulf Giants made history at the Season 5 DP World ILT20 auction on October 1, 2026, according to Gulf News. The franchise first exercised its Right‑to‑Match option to retain Afghanistan wicket‑keeper‑batter Rahmanullah Gurbaz for US$310,000, making him the most expensive player in the tournament’s auction history at that moment.
Only minutes later, the Giants secured England all‑rounder Liam Livingstone for US$350,000, surpassing the previous record by US$40,000. The 32‑year‑old, noted for his power‑hitting and off‑spin, joins the team as a high‑profile addition ahead of the upcoming ILT20 season.
The double record‑breaking deals underline Gulf Giants’ aggressive spending strategy, with the franchise aiming to strengthen its squad by acquiring two of the most sought‑after T20 talents in a single afternoon.
Key facts
- Gulf Giants retained Rahmanullah Gurbaz for US$310,000, setting a new ILT20 auction record. (gulfnews.com)
- Liam Livingstone was bought for US$350,000, breaking the record set moments earlier. (gulfnews.com)
- Both deals occurred during the Season 5 DP World ILT20 auction on October 1, 2026. (gulfnews.com)
Sources
- [1] gulfnews.com — originally reported as “Gulf Giants Shatter ILT20 Auction Records with Gurbaz and Livingstone Deals”
