ETPL Launches Glasgow Franchise with Chris Gayle as Co-Owner
Synopsis
The European T20 Premier League introduces the Glasgow Mugafians, led by co-owner Chris Gayle. This bold move aims to elevate cricket in Europe, creating a professional home for Scotland's rich cricketing heritage.
Key Takeaways
ETPL introduces the Glasgow Mugafians.
Chris Gayle is co-owner and Global Brand Ambassador.
First edition scheduled for August 26 to September 20, 2026.
Franchise aims to professionalize Scotland’s cricket.
ETPL collaborates with major cricket associations.
Mumbai, April 20 (NationPress) The European T20 Premier League (ETPL), Europe’s first ICC-sanctioned T20 franchise tournament, has introduced the ‘Glasgow Mugafians,' its team based in Glasgow, Scotland. This franchise is under the ownership of Tansha Batra, with the legendary West Indies cricketer Chris Gayle as co-owner and Global Brand Ambassador.
The inaugural edition of the ETPL is set to take place from August 26 to September 20, 2026. It will include six franchises from Glasgow, Amsterdam, Edinburgh, Dublin, Belfast, and Rotterdam, competing in a total of 33 matches.
Regarding the Glasgow franchise, Abhishek Bachchan, a Bollywood actor and co-owner of ETPL, stated, “We are thrilled to have the Mugafi Group and Chris Gayle join us on this adventure. Europe is emerging as a thrilling frontier for cricket, with its rich sporting heritage, diversity, and unexploited potential. Through the ETPL, we aim to create not just a league but a platform that can reveal talent, connect markets, and position Europe as a vital new hub in the global cricket landscape.”
Tansha Batra, owner of the Glasgow Mugafians, expressed, “This initiative is not merely about introducing cricket to Scotland. The sport has existed here for ages – in parks, clubs, and communities. We are establishing a franchise that finally provides a professional home for all that. The Glasgow Mugafians will ensure Scotland’s cricket narrative is no longer a secret but a story shared with the world.”
Chris Gayle, co-owner and Global Brand Ambassador of Glasgow Mugafians, remarked, “Becoming a co-owner of Glasgow Mugafians marks a thrilling new phase for me. The ETPL is already making a significant impact globally, and with my experience in franchise leagues worldwide, I believe this will be extraordinary. Europe is the final frontier for cricket, and the ETPL holds the promise of uncovering local talent and cultivating future stars who will enhance the sport in the region. I eagerly anticipate embarking on this new journey.”
The ETPL has attracted some of the most distinguished figures in international cricket and sports as franchise owners. The Amsterdam franchise is backed by Australian cricket legend Steve Waugh and hockey star Jamie Dwyer, with Mitchell Marsh as the captain. The Belfast team is co-owned by Australian all-rounder Glenn Maxwell, while the Edinburgh franchise is spearheaded by New Zealand stars Kyle Mills and Nathan McCullum, with Mitchell Santner leading as captain. Glasgow now joins this elite group, with Chris Gayle and Tansha Batra from the Mugafi Group at the forefront.
The European T20 Premier League (ETPL) is being developed in collaboration with Cricket Ireland, Cricket Scotland, and the Royal Dutch Cricket Association.
Point of View
This initiative could rejuvenate the sport in the region and provide a platform for emerging talent. The ETPL's vision to elevate cricket's status in Europe is both ambitious and promising.
NationPress
2 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the European T20 Premier League?
The European T20 Premier League (ETPL) is Europe’s first ICC-approved T20 franchise competition, aimed at enhancing the sport's presence in the region.
Who owns the Glasgow Mugafians?
The Glasgow Mugafians are owned by Tansha Batra, with Chris Gayle serving as co-owner and Global Brand Ambassador.
When will the first edition of the ETPL take place?
The inaugural edition of the ETPL is scheduled from August 26 to September 20, 2026.
How many franchises will compete in the ETPL?
The ETPL will feature six franchises from various cities including Glasgow, Amsterdam, Edinburgh, Dublin, Belfast, and Rotterdam.
What is the goal of the ETPL?
The ETPL aims to unlock local talent, connect markets, and establish Europe as a central hub for cricket globally.
