Abhishek Bachchan, co-owner of the European T20 Premier League, which is set to make its debut in 2026, believes ETPL has the potential to make a meaningful difference and “serve as a launchpad for local talent to rise through the ranks and break onto the global stage”.
Sanctioned by the International Cricket Council (ICC), ETPL will be played across three countries —Ireland, Scotland, and the Netherlands — all of which have featured in ICC World Cups.
Given proper direction, the ETPL could establish itself as Europe’s own IPL, Bachchan rather ambitiously argues.
In an interaction with BBC, Bachchan shared his perspective: “When the European T20 League came about, I saw a market primed for a professional T20 league. I truly feel we can make a difference here, and that’s why I chose this as my foray into proper cricket. The ETPL is being played in three very unique and iconic countries — Ireland, Scotland, and the Netherlands.
“These are all World Cup-playing teams and have been giant killers at various points in time. With cricket now being introduced in the Olympics, this feels like the right moment. These three markets are screaming for their own professional T20 leagues. Most ICC nations already have them. This league can serve as a launch-pad for local talent who can rise through the ranks and break onto the world stage. I believe the talent exists; it’s the platform that’s missing. I hope, God willing, ETPL will provide that.”
Expanding on the league’s ambitions, he added, “We are committed to world-class gameplay that’s on par with the best leagues. We aim to attract top global names. This is cricket as you have never seen it. We also have a mandate to support the women’s game. We hold rights for both, men’s and women’s leagues and hope to launch the women’s ETPL within the first three to five years. I’m biased, but I hope some of our Indian girls are part of it.”
Commenting on the social impact of cricket and the evolution of Indian players, Bachchan said: “In India, there’s hardly anyone among our billion-strong population who doesn’t love cricket. The sport is deeply embedded in our culture. The BCCI has done a great job in marketing it, creating superstars for children to idolize. To build and promote a sport, you need stars. Cricket has become a true social leveller. Whether you are from Karnataka, Assam, or Punjab, anyone has a real chance to wear the Indian jersey. On the field, everyone is equal — it’s your talent that speaks.
“The IPL changed lives. Before it, only the top 16 cricketers could dream of a professional career with Team India. Now, budding cricketers with talent and ambition have a legitimate platform. There’s no other system in the world that offers the kind of opportunities IPL does.”
