Brendon McCullum Jay Shah. Image Credits: AFP
The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) has reacted to the news of a new multi-nation tournament that was proposed by ICC full member Ireland comprising teams from Europe.
The idea, championed by Cricket Ireland head Brian MacNeice, is to develop a European equivalent of the Asia Cup, with T20 competitions for both men and women. This idea is being seen as a boon and a huge step in strengthening cricket teams across Europe and also particularly for associate teams.
Ireland propose a multinational Euro Cup on the lines of the Asia Cup, featuring England
With a few European teams—possibly including England, Ireland, Scotland, the Netherlands, and Italy—the competition would resemble the Asia Cup for both men's and women's cricket. MacNeice stated that he had discussed the idea with ECB officials during England's short T20I visit to Ireland in September of last year and that he was "very passionate" about it.
"I've had this on the table for discussion with various stakeholders for quite some time. It's something that I'm very passionate about and that I fundamentally believe in. The conversations have now developed and evolved to a point that I'm much more confident that it is going to happen… There are multiple stakeholders that will be part of that in due course, but I would anticipate that it will kick off in the summer of '27,” MacNeice was quoted by ESPNcricinfo.
The Jay Shah ICC's current rules regarding multinational international competitions have come to light as a result of the suggestion. According to international body regulations, competitions with three or more international teams usually need ICC approval.
Also Read: England Legend Announces Retirement In The Midst Of IPL 2026
ECB chief Richard Gould pours cold water on England’s involvement in the proposed European Cup
The CEO of the ECB, Richard Gould, has rejected the notion of an Asia Cup-style competition for European countries. However, England's participation would be necessary for a successful launch, and Gould stated on Tuesday that he had no intention of adding the men's team's international schedule.
"It's a very nice idea. [But] our schedule is absolutely jam-packed, and we're not looking to add to our schedule,” Gould said, speaking at the ECB's domestic season launch at Lord's.
Although the ECB is still open to talking about the notion, it feels that without guaranteed broadcast interest, the event would not be feasible.
England has tentatively agreed to return for another three-match T20I series in 2029 after touring Ireland for three T20Is last September, one of which was cancelled.
Also Read: Pakistan Veteran Provokes Indian Cricket Team Against Narendra Modi After Naseem Shah's Case
