Photo Credit: Facebook Photo of Abhishek Bachchan
Bollywood superstar Abhishek Bachchan has joined the newly launched European T20 Premier League (ETPL) as a co-owner. This move follows his successful involvement in the Pro Kabaddi League, where he owns the Jaipur Pink Panthers. Bachchan aims to bring attention to the ETPL, a tournament designed to revolutionize cricket in Ireland, Scotland, and the Netherlands by providing a platform for local players to compete with top-tier international talent.
In a major step forward, the International Cricket Council (ICC) officially recognized the ETPL last week, which will help attract players from ICC member nations and associate countries, enhancing the league’s global stature.
The inaugural season of the ETPL is scheduled to run from July 15 to August 3, 2025, with teams representing Dublin, Belfast, Amsterdam, Rotterdam, Edinburgh, and Glasgow.
Bachchan, reflecting on his role, expressed that his involvement would significantly boost media interest, particularly from India, which is at the heart of cricket’s global following. “Cricket isn’t merely a sport; it’s a binding force that bridges divides. The ETPL presents a paramount opportunity to highlight cricket’s expanding global presence. With cricket’s inclusion in the 2028 Olympics, its allure will only strengthen. I’m both humbled and thrilled to be part of this innovative partnership between the cricket boards of Ireland, Scotland, and the Netherlands,” Bachchan remarked.
He also thanked the ICC and the relevant cricket boards for their efforts in bringing the ETPL to fruition. “I extend my gratitude to the ICC and the cricket boards for their unwavering dedication. Congratulations to Warren, Saurav, Priyanka, Dhiraj, Andrew, and others who have tirelessly worked over the last year to turn this vision into reality. This is merely the beginning. It’s time for us to roll up our sleeves and get the games underway!” he added.
The ETPL will be chaired by Warren Deutrom, CEO of Cricket Ireland, with Saurav Banerjee and Priyanka Kaul taking up key leadership roles as Directors of the league.
An upcoming formal inauguration event will reveal further details about the franchise teams, ownership structures, and player draft procedures. The ETPL is poised to play a pivotal role in increasing cricket’s popularity in Europe, ushering in a new era for the sport in the region.
_______________________________________________________________________________________
Stay ahead of the latest cricket industry trends by subscribing to our free cricexec “daily briefing” newsletter.
Name of Author: Cricexec Staff
