A new franchise-based cricket tournament, the European T20 Premier League (ETPL), is set to begin in July. Organizers announced on Tuesday, March 18th, that the matches will be held in Dublin, Ireland, and Rotterdam, the Netherlands.
This 33-match tournament, featuring six teams and sanctioned by the International Cricket Council (ICC), is scheduled from July 15th to August 8th.
The ETPL is a unique collaboration between Ireland, Scotland, and the Netherlands. Each country will host two franchise teams. The teams will consist of eight local players and a development player from another European nation, emphasizing the growth of local and regional cricket talent.
According to the league, unlike other leagues supported by a single national cricket board, the ETPL has the combined support of Cricket Ireland, Cricket Scotland, and Cricket Netherlands. This unprecedented cooperation highlights a strong commitment to expanding cricket across Europe.
The ETPL presents a significant market opportunity, aiming to engage the entire European market, excluding England. Each new country involved offers substantial potential for growth.
The Irish franchises will represent Dublin and Belfast, adding a competitive element to the league. The ETPL is designed to support the ongoing development of cricket in Ireland, Scotland, and the Netherlands, providing a platform for emerging players to gain international exposure.
The league will adopt a format similar to other successful franchise leagues, including a draft system. However, it distinguishes itself as the first tournament to involve three nations.
Bollywood actor Abhishek Bachchan is a promoter and co-founder of the league. During a visit to Dublin on Tuesday, Bachchan expressed his excitement about the European T20 Premier League. He believes it’s a great opportunity to develop cricket in Europe, nurture local talent, and provide world-class entertainment. He added that the ETPL will showcase European cricket and create a vibrant cultural experience for families and communities.
