“It’s not your overseas players that win you competitions, it’s the local players,” said Faf du Plessis, captain and co-owner of the Rotterdam franchise in the European T20 Premier League (ETPL). The inaugural edition of the ETPL will run from August 26 to September 20, 2026, featuring six city-based teams including Rotterdam, Amsterdam, and Edinburgh.
Du Plessis emphasized the importance of homegrown talent in achieving success. The Netherlands has seen notable achievements in white-ball cricket, defeating teams like England and South Africa. This success lays a strong foundation for the new league.
Jonty Rhodes shared his excitement about the league, stating, “It is an exciting place to be, (but) it’s a bit scary.” His comments reflect the challenges and opportunities that come with establishing a new cricketing platform in Europe.
Heinrich Klaasen expressed confidence in the league’s potential: “I know for sure that it will be a quality league when it starts.” His optimism aligns with Du Plessis’s vision of leveraging local talent as a competitive advantage.
The ETPL aims to create a vibrant cricket culture in Europe. Private equity interest in leagues like Australia’s Big Bash League (BBL) indicates a growing market for cricket investment. However, Cricket Australia has faced financial struggles, reporting losses of A$31.9 million in 2023–24 and A$11.3 million in 2024–25.
As Du Plessis prepares to launch his franchise, he faces competition from established leagues. The BBL remains a significant player, with discussions around private ownership rejected by Queensland Cricket and Cricket NSW.
The ETPL’s focus on local talent could set it apart from other leagues. By prioritizing homegrown players, Du Plessis believes his franchise can build a unique identity within international cricket.
The next expected development will be the announcement of player signings and team formations as the league approaches its inaugural season.
