The European T20 Premier League (ETPL) is officially set to launch in 2026, following unanimous approval from the Board and after extensive consultations with key cricket, media, and business stakeholders. The league is being positioned as a transformative force in European and global cricket.
Originally slated for a 2025 debut, organizers decided to push the launch to 2026 to ensure stronger alignment with investors, broadcasters, franchise partners, and governing bodies.
ETPL sets foundation for sustainable growth in European cricket
Warren Deutrom, Chair of ETPL, emphasized the importance of a long-term vision:
“We’re building for the long term. With the right partners, capital and support across the board, 2026 gives us the ideal runway to launch a league that is professional, competitive and built to last.”
He also noted that the league has the backing of Rules Sport Tech and the national cricket boards of Ireland, Scotland, and the Netherlands, positioning ETPL as a serious new player in the global T20 ecosystem.
Strong interest from global cricket investors and broadcasters
Saurav Banerjee, Co-owner of the ETPL, said the delay to 2026 has proven beneficial:
“Our focus has been clear from the start: build it right, with the right people. The surge of interest we are now seeing from investors to broadcasters to franchises confirms we are on the right path.”
The ETPL received official sanction from the International Cricket Council (ICC) on November 27, 2024. This endorsement was a critical step in gaining credibility and setting the groundwork for a fully sanctioned T20 competition that unites multiple European boards.
Landmark collaboration in European cricket
The league represents a groundbreaking partnership between the cricket boards of Ireland, Scotland, and the Netherlands. It is the first time these European nations have come together to launch a professional T20 competition aimed at capturing both regional and global interest.
The European T20 Premier League is expected to feature city-based franchises, high-profile international and domestic talent, and a wide media footprint that spans both traditional and digital platforms.
With the 2026 launch, the ETPL joins a growing roster of global T20 leagues — but with a uniquely European identity and mission to grow the game on the continent.
