Exclusive: Irish Cricket Poised for Lift-Off with European T20 Premier League Launch

Ireland's cricket fraternity is brimming with excitement as a new chapter unfolds. The announcement of the European T20 Premier League (ETPL), sanctioned by the International Cricket Council (ICC), marks a significant milestone for the sport in Europe. Slated to debut from July 15 to August 3, 2025, the tournament offers a platform for Irish cricket to shine on the global stage.

Cricket Ireland confirmed on January 4 that the ETPL will feature a unique collaboration between Ireland, Scotland, and the Netherlands. This partnership aims to create a distinctly European cricket league, bringing together top talent from these nations alongside renowned international stars.

A BOOST FOR IRISH CRICKET

For Ireland, the ETPL comes as a much-needed boost. Despite their growing reputation, Irish cricketers have had limited opportunities in global T20 leagues. The ETPL promises to address this gap while benefiting other European cricketing nations.

Ireland head coach Heinrich Malan is optimistic about the league’s impact on the team’s development. Speaking to SportsBoom.com, he expressed confidence that competing against top T20 players would elevate Irish cricket to new heights.

“Very much excited about the ETPL kicking off during the summer this year. It's obviously something that has been in the pipeline for a little while, and hopefully it creates some nice opportunities for our players and the players from Scotland and Netherlands along with some of the best players in the world,” said Malan.

He emphasized the potential for local players to gain exposure and perform on a bigger stage. “Hopefully there will be some good performances and create opportunities to gain exposure and ultimately bring that environment to keep thriving Ireland cricket forward through individual players who become quality T20 players around the world and in different franchise leagues,” he added.

Malan also highlighted the balance of local and overseas talent in the league: “First and foremost, the European players will be picked to represent as franchise. So, yeah, exciting but then as the rules allow having quality international overseas players to complement that. It's an exciting concept and very much looking forward to it.”

BRIDGING THE GAP

Irish cricket legend Paul Stirling shared Malan’s enthusiasm, describing the ETPL as a long-overdue development. Stirling believes the tournament will address a crucial challenge: bridging the gap between club, domestic, and international cricket.

"We're absolutely delighted that we've got a new competition. It's been a long time coming. I think we've tried to cross the line for the past 3-4 years, and delighted that it seems to be in the pipeline to be achieved this year,” said Stirling.

“From our perspective, it can only help us. It bridges the gap between club cricket and domestic cricket to the international scene, which is what we're trying to achieve. And I think having our own franchise and system along with Scotland and Netherlands will help us to achieve that. Only good things will come of that,” he added, expressing hope that the league stays on track for its inaugural season in July.

The tournament’s development is being overseen by an interim working group comprising representatives from the participating cricket boards and strategic partner, Rules Sport Tech. This group is tasked with establishing a new administrative entity to manage the league.

Adding star power and credibility to the ETPL, renowned actor, entrepreneur, and sports enthusiast Abhishek Bachchan has invested in the league as a co-owner. His involvement underscores the tournament’s potential to attract global attention and resources.

The ETPL is poised to revolutionise cricket in Europe, giving Irish players the platform they need to compete with the world’s best. With growing anticipation, all eyes are on July, when this groundbreaking tournament will finally take flight.