The European T20 Premier League (ETPL) will officially launch in 2026, following unanimous approval by the Board.
The decision comes after extensive consultation with key stakeholders across cricket, business and media.
The initial 2025 window envisioned for the tournament provided a solid foundation, but conversations with franchise aspirants, broadcasters, sponsors, and governing bodies made it clear that 2026 gives ETPL the best chance to succeed.
“We’re building for the long term,” said Warren Deutrom, Chair of the ETPL and CEO of Cricket Ireland.
“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.”
“With the backing of Rules Sport Tech and the national boards of Ireland, Scotland and the Netherlands, the ETPL is shaping up to be a powerful new force in global cricket.”
“Our focus has been clear from the start,” added co-owner Saurav Banerjee.
“We want to build it right, with the right people.”
“The surge of interest we are now seeing from investors, broadcasters, and franchises confirms we are on the right path.”
Sanctioned by the ICC on November 27, 2024, the ETPL represents a landmark collaboration among the cricket boards of Ireland, Scotland and the Netherlands, a united effort to grow the game and elevate European cricket on the world stage.
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It’s a pity that there is this postponement but Summer 2025 always looked optimistic and in years to come when the League is established and successful, no one will remember that it was a ’26 start rather than a ’25.
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