Faf du Plessis and Jonty Rhodes are taking a significant step into team ownership with the Rotterdam Dockers in the European T20 Premier League. They aim to develop local talent in Dutch cricket. The inaugural edition of the ETPL will take place from August 26 to September 20.
Key facts:
- Du Plessis is the captain and co-owner of the Rotterdam Dockers.
- The European T20 Premier League features six city-based teams including Rotterdam, Amsterdam, and Edinburgh.
- The tournament aims to boost cricket in Europe and create pathways for local talent.
- Five of the six franchises have been sold, with one team still under negotiation.
Du Plessis believes local Dutch players will be crucial for the success of his team. He stated, “It’s not your overseas players that win you competitions, it’s the local players.” This reflects his commitment to nurturing homegrown talent.
Rhodes echoed this sentiment, saying, “The ETPL offers exactly that, creating pathways to identify, nurture, and scale talent, ultimately strengthening the game across Europe.” He acknowledged that while it is an exciting venture, it also carries its challenges.
Du Plessis has extensive experience in franchise leagues worldwide. He sees potential in the ETPL’s model for developing cricket in Europe. The total value of franchises sold over a ten-year period is estimated at £11.1 million.
