Bollywood star becomes co-owner in ICC-sanctioned European league in July-August 2025

Bollywood star and well-known celebrity Abhishek Bachchan has invested in the European T20 Premier League (ETPL) and is now a co-owner. The ETPL is a franchise tournament, sanctioned by the International Cricket Council (ICC).

In partnership with three countries - Ireland, Scotland, and the Netherlands, the European T20 Premier League is scheduled to kickstart on July 15, 2025. It is expected to run till August 3, 2025. The tournament will witness top players from these three nations along with the best players across the globe playing together.

Abhishek Bachchan, who is a famous celebrity, entrepreneur, and sports enthusiast, will add to the massive global appeal of the league. While his inclusion is likely to attract fans and investors, it will also attract the large cricket-crazy audience in India.

“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," Abhishek was quoted as saying in a press release via The Economic Times (about his investment in the European T20 League).

"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 the countless others who have been working hard over the last year in making 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."

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Abhishek receives warm welcome as co-owner in the European T20 Premier League

Mr. Warren Deutrom, who is the CEO of Cricket Ireland and chair of the European T20 Premier League, welcomed Abhishek Bachchan.

Mr. Deutrom expressed his delight, acknowledging Abhishek's passion for sport and the value he will bring as a co-owner.

“We are delighted to welcome Abhishek Bachchan as a co-owner of the ETPL. His deep passion for sports and entrepreneurial acumen add tremendous value to our vision of elevating the status and profile of European cricket. With ICC’s support, Abhishek’s commitment to our shared vision, alongside the exceptional expertise brought to the tournament by Saurav, Priyanka and Dhiraj from Rules Sport Tech, we believe we can create a cricket experience that elevates the game, inspires young talent, and provides a tremendous platform for European cricket on the global cricketing stage," he said.

The tournament will begin with six teams from Dublin, Belfast, Amsterdam, Rotterdam, Edinburgh, and Glasgow.