About us

The team

Royal Desert Champions

Royal Desert Champions is a franchise competing in the Abu Dhabi T10, making its debut in the 2026 season. The team is built on the belief that champions are revealed when conditions are toughest, and on the qualities the desert stands for: resilience, courage, adaptability and ambition.

Its aim is to be a team Abu Dhabi can be proud of, connecting with fans at home and around the world.

The owner

Amit Narang

An entrepreneur and former banker with over 17 years of experience across leading international banks in India and the UAE. He subsequently founded and built a successful UAE fintech business, ICC Fintech

He now brings his entrepreneurial experience and track record of building successful businesses to the world of sport.

The Leadership

Vasantha Kumar

Chief Executive Officer

Seasoned business and marketing leader with 30+ years of experience across technology, banking, retail, media and FMCG. Former senior leader at IBM, RBS, ABN AMRO and IndusInd Bank, with expertise across India, APAC and the Middle East. Brings extensive experience in strategic growth, brand building and sports sponsorships, including ICC events.

Robin Singh

Team Director

A former India all-rounder with 137 international appearances, Robin Singh has coached India’s fielding unit, Mumbai Indians, Barbados Tridents and the UAE national team as Director of Cricket, along with Abu Dhabi T10 stints. His experience gives Royal Desert Champions a leader with a proven understanding of winning in the shortest formats.

Joy Bhattacharjya

Team Consultant

Former Team Director of Kolkata Knight Riders for seven seasons in the IPL, after years as Head of Production at ESPN Star Sports. He was Project Director for the FIFA U-17 World Cup in India and is currently CEO of the Prime Volleyball League, bringing deep sports management experience to the Royal Desert Champions’ journey on and off the field.

Royal Desert Champions