Bollywood actor Abhishek Bachchan's ICC-sanctioned T20 League postponed until 2026

Bollywood actor Abhishek Bachchan's ICC-sanctioned T20 league, the European T20 Premier League (ETPL), has been postponed until 2026. The league was scheduled to be held from July 15 to August 3, in 2025.

The league was approved by the ICC in November last year. Abhishek had acquired a stake in the tournament in January earlier this year. The Bollywood actor said while talking about his investment (via Hindustan Times):

"Cricket is not just a sport; it's a unifying force that transcends boundaries. The ETPL is the ideal platform to showcase cricket's growing global appeal. With cricket being included in the 2028 Olympics, its popularity will further surge. I'm humbled and excited about this unique collaboration between the cricket boards of Ireland, Scotland, and the Netherlands.

"I sincerely thank the ICC and the three boards for their tireless work, and I have immense faith in our team to bring this event to fruition. I congratulate Warren, Saurav, Priyanka, Dhiraj, Andrew and countless others who have been working hard over the last year to make this a reality.

"I am dedicated to working with all stakeholders to ensure that the ETPL becomes a resounding success, bringing cricket closer to millions across Europe. This is just the beginning. It's time to roll up our sleeves and let the games begin."

However, the league has now been postponed until 2026, with the approval of the boards and discussions with those involved, as per a statement by Ireland Cricket.

“The European T20 Premier League (ETPL) will officially launch in 2026, following unanimous approval by the Board. The decision follows extensive consultation with key stakeholders across cricket, business, and media," Ireland Cricket stated (via News18).

“The initial 2025 window for the tournament provided a solid foundation, but discussions with franchise aspirants, broadcasters, sponsors, and governing bodies made it clear: 2026 offers the best opportunity for ETPL to succeed," the statement added.

Reportedly, some of the potential owners of franchises in the ETPL T20 tournament are involved in acquiring stakes in England's 'The Hundred' league, which led to the postponement of the ETPL.

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What is the European T20 Premier League?

The European T20 Premier League is a franchise-based tournament, with six teams set to participate. The competition will be collectively held by the cricket boards of Ireland, Scotland, and the Netherlands, with an aim to promote cricket in Europe.

Warren Deutrom, Chair of ETPL, stated that the tournament's postponement to 2026 will allow them to build it for the long term in a professional manner.

“We’re building for the long term. With the right partners, capital, and support across the board, 2026 gives us the ideal runway to launch a league that is professional, competitive, and built to last. With the backing of Rules Sports Tech and the national boards of Ireland, Scotland, and the Netherlands, the ETPL is shaping up to be a powerful new force in global cricket," he said (via News18).

Further, Saurav Banerjee, co-owner of ETPL, added that there is increasing interest from investors, broadcasters, and franchises for the tournament.