Green, White, Red Belt & more: Know all about the new, unique player awards in ILT20

The International League T20 has introduced a set of new player awards to recognise and reward players for their efforts in each match of the ongoing tournament. The new set of awards includes five belts, namely, Green Belt, White Belt, Black Belt, Red Belt, and Blue Belt. The Green and White Belts will be passed from player to player, who top the top run-scorers and top wicket-takers list. 

The tournament kicked off on January 13 at the Dubai International Stadium. Players from around the world are in the inaugural season of the event which features the participation of six teams. Meanwhile, here’s a look at what each of the five belts introduced in ILT20 2023 signifies.

Green Belt

The leading run-scorer of ILT20 after each match will receive the Green Belt. The award will be passed on at the end of each innings if there’s a change in the charts. Former India cricketer Robin Uthappa received the ILT20 green belt on Monday for his 79-run knock, which took him to the top of the run-scoring list. Later in the night James Vince overtook Uthappa as the top scorer.

White Belt

The white belt will be passed on from one bowler to another at the conclusion of each innings. The leading wicket-taker of the tournament after every innings will receive the award. Afghanistan bowler Mujeeb Ur Rahman received the award on Monday for topping the charts.

Black Belt

The black belt will be presented at the closing ceremony of the ILT20. This award comes into play at the conclusion of the tournament as the owner of the team that wins the tournament will receive the black belt. The 34-match tournament will conclude with the ILT20 2023 final on February 12 at the Dubai International Stadium.

Red Belt

The most valuable player of the tournament will be honored with the Red Belt at the conclusion of ILT20 2023. 

Blue Belt

The blue belt will be awarded to one of the 24 UAE players playing in the tournament. These players were specially handpicked to play in the ILT20 and will compete for the blue belt throughout the tournament.