The European T20 Premier League (ETPL) has taken a significant step toward its launch with the announcement of its first three franchises, adding momentum to cricket’s growing footprint in Europe. Sanctioned by the International Cricket Council, the league is scheduled to debut later this year and aims to bring high-quality franchise cricket to emerging European markets.
The initial teams will be based in Amsterdam, Edinburgh, and Belfast, with further franchises expected to be revealed in the coming months as the competition builds toward its inaugural season.
Steve Waugh and Glenn Maxwell Invest as Franchise Owners
Adding instant credibility to the new league is the involvement of prominent cricketing names as franchise investors. Former Australian captain Steve Waugh has joined the ownership group of the Amsterdam franchise.
His investment comes as part of a wider consortium that also includes former Australian hockey captain Jamie Dwyer and entrepreneur Tim Thomas. Waugh’s association reflects the league’s ambition to blend sporting experience with business acumen to ensure long-term sustainability.
Meanwhile, the Belfast franchise has attracted current Australian all-rounder Glenn Maxwell as a co-owner. Known for his explosive style of play and global T20 experience, Maxwell has partnered with Rohan Lund and additional investors who are expected to be announced later. His involvement highlights the increasing trend of active players contributing to the growth of franchise cricket beyond the field.
Edinburgh Franchise and Vision for European Cricket
The Edinburgh team will be owned by former New Zealand internationals Nathan McCullum and Kyle Mills, further strengthening the league’s international credentials. Their experience in both playing and cricket administration is expected to play a key role in shaping the franchise’s competitive and developmental approach.
The ETPL has been positioned as a platform to accelerate cricket’s popularity across Europe by combining local talent with global stars. With official ICC backing and respected names involved at ownership level, the league hopes to attract fans, sponsors, and broadcasters from its very first season.
Scheduled to begin in August, the competition is seen as a strategic move to expand cricket into non-traditional markets while maintaining high professional standards. As more teams and details are unveiled, the European T20 Premier League appears poised to become an important addition to the global T20 ecosystem.
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