In a significant development for European cricket, renowned actor and sports enthusiast Abhishek Bachchan has joined the European T20 Premier League (ETPL) as a co-owner. This new partnership, which comes ahead of the league's inaugural season in 2025, adds substantial global appeal to the competition, further solidifying the ETPL’s position as a pioneering cricket tournament in Europe.
The ETPL, sanctioned by the International Cricket Council (ICC), will feature top cricket talent from Ireland, Scotland, and the Netherlands, as well as international stars from around the world. Scheduled to run from July 15th to August 3rd, 2025, the tournament promises to bring thrilling T20 action to European shores, combining world-class talent with the passionate fanbase of these cricketing nations.
Speaking about his new role, Abhishek Bachchan expressed his excitement and enthusiasm for the project, noting that cricket is more than just a sport—it’s a powerful unifying force. “With cricket being included in the 2028 Olympics, the sport’s global popularity is only set to increase. The ETPL provides the perfect platform to tap into this growing appeal, and I am truly excited to be part of this collaboration between Ireland, Scotland, and the Netherlands,” Bachchan said. He also acknowledged the tireless efforts of the key figures behind the league’s development, emphasizing his commitment to making the ETPL a massive success.
The ETPL's launch is being guided by an interim working group consisting of representatives from the three participating cricket boards, as well as strategic partner Rules Sport Tech, who have been instrumental in the tournament's creation. Additionally, KPMG has come on board as the league’s advisors, providing expertise in financial planning, due diligence, and strategic support.
This new venture marks a pivotal moment for European cricket, with the ETPL set to not only provide an exciting new competition but also nurture fresh talent and deliver unparalleled entertainment for cricket fans across the continent. The league’s business model, player drafts, and franchise ownership details will be unveiled at a formal launch event in the near future.
With Abhishek Bachchan on board, the European T20 Premier League is set to be a game-changer for cricket in Europe, helping bring the sport closer to millions of fans while adding a touch of Bollywood stardom to the mix. The countdown to the first season in 2025 has begun, and all eyes are now on this thrilling new cricketing venture.