ETPL Gains ICC Approval: Europe’s New Cricket Franchise League Set for Launch

The International Cricket Council (ICC) has officially sanctioned the European T20 Premier League (ETPL), a new annual franchise-based T20 tournament set to debut from July 15 to August 3, 2025.

The ETPL is a joint venture involving Ireland, Scotland, and the Netherlands, marking a significant collaboration among the three cricket boards. The tournament, which is privately owned, aims to elevate the profile of cricket in Europe.

During its developmental phase, an interim working group was established, comprising representatives from the participating boards. Additionally, a strategic partner, Rules Sport Tech, was appointed to support funding efforts, facilitate decision-making, and manage the creation of an administrative body to oversee the event.

Warren Deutrom, Chair of the interim working group, expressed enthusiasm for the milestone, stating, “We are delighted to confirm the ICC sanction of the ETPL, and agreements are now in place across the joint venture partners. This is an important day in the development of the event, as it effectively fires the starting pistol on work around three important areas – franchise ownership, broadcast, and the player draft.”

The ETPL aims to attract top-tier cricket talent while establishing a new hub for the sport in Europe, with further details on franchise operations and player selection expected in the coming months.