South African Cricket Legends Join Forces for New European T20 League Franchise

Three iconic South African cricketers, Jonty Rhodes, Faf du Plessis, and Heinrich Klaasen, are set to revolutionize European cricket by acquiring a franchise in the European T20 Premier League. This new venture aims to enhance the cricketing landscape in Europe, with the inaugural season scheduled for August 2026. The league promises to showcase talent across six cities, including Rotterdam, and aims to create a robust framework for the sport's growth. With their extensive experience and passion for cricket, these legends are committed to nurturing young talent and building a strong cricket culture in the region. Discover how this initiative could transform the future of cricket in Europe.

By Narendra Chaudhary Apr 30, 2026, 11:46 IST

Cricket Icons Expand Their Horizons

Three renowned cricketers from South Africa, Jonty Rhodes, Faf du Plessis, and Heinrich Klaasen, are venturing into franchise ownership by acquiring the fifth team in the European T20 Premier League (ETPL), which is the first ICC-sanctioned T20 league in Europe, located in Rotterdam, Netherlands. Madhukar Shree will serve as the Managing Partner. This development signifies a significant step for a league that is quickly becoming one of the most eagerly awaited new competitions in global cricket, with its inaugural matches set to take place in six European cities this August.

Inaugural Season Details

The Rotterdam franchise will participate in the league's first season, which is scheduled from August 26 to September 20, 2026. A total of 33 matches will be played among six city-based franchises: Glasgow, Amsterdam, Edinburgh, Dublin, Belfast, and Rotterdam, marking a pivotal moment for cricket in Europe.

Vision from the Star Owners

Jonty Rhodes expressed his enthusiasm, stating, "The ETPL offers a remarkable opportunity. We've witnessed glimpses of Europe's cricketing potential on the world stage, particularly during recent ICC events. What the region requires now is a robust commercial framework to unify and enhance this ecosystem. The ETPL provides that, creating pathways to discover, nurture, and develop talent, ultimately fortifying the game across Europe. I am thrilled to be part of this journey."

Faf du Plessis remarked, "Joining Jonty and Klassy in acquiring a franchise in the ETPL is special. This marks my initial foray into team ownership, and the timing aligns perfectly with the growing momentum of European cricket. Having participated in franchise leagues globally, I recognize the immense potential of what the ETPL is establishing. I look forward to contributing both on and off the field and fostering a strong cricket culture within our team."

Support from League and Local Leadership

Abhishek Bachchan, actor and Co-owner of ETPL, stated, "We are honored to welcome three cricket legends into franchise ownership within the ETPL. The league is gaining traction with respected figures investing in its vision. Ownership groups like this set the benchmark for what the ETPL aspires to achieve, both on and off the field. Together, we are dedicated to creating something transformative for the sport in Europe."

Huib van Walsem, CEO of the Royal Dutch Cricket Association (KNCB), added, "The entry of Jonty Rhodes, Faf du Plessis, and Heinrich Klaasen as franchise owners in Rotterdam is a promising development for cricket in the Netherlands. At KNCB, we have long recognized the vast potential of the Dutch cricketing ecosystem, and the involvement of such seasoned cricket figures will enhance competitive cricket and attract quality talent to the region. This is a positive moment for us, providing an opportunity to support the sport's growth, strengthen grassroots development, and create clearer pathways for young players."

Ambition and Commitment

Heinrich Klaasen stated, "Rotterdam is a city characterized by ambition, and we want this franchise to reflect that mindset. European cricket is clearly on the rise, and I have witnessed how the right investment and structure can unlock a market's full potential across the global T20 circuit. We are not just here to own a team; we aim to build something that the city and its fans can take pride in. I am eager to get started."

Dhiraj Malhotra, Co-founder of ETPL, concluded, "With years of experience in franchise cricket, I have seen how crucial the vision and pedigree of franchise owners are for a league's long-term success. Jonty, Faf, and Klaasen bring not only global experience and deep cricketing insight but also a strong commitment to mentoring young talent, which will be invaluable in developing both the team and the broader cricket ecosystem in Europe."

Star Power in the League

The announcement regarding Rotterdam adds to an already impressive ownership landscape within the league. The Amsterdam franchise is supported by Steve Waugh and hockey legend Jamie Dwyer, while Glenn Maxwell co-owns the Belfast team. The Edinburgh franchise is backed by Kyle Mills and Nathan McCullum, and Chris Gayle co-owns the Glasgow team.