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The Euro National Cup has not started yet. Earlier, the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) had mentioned that the iconic Lord’s would not be available for the newly contemplated tournament.
A group of European countries including Ireland, Netherlands and Scotland are actively working on a board to invent a new league, which will be an exclusive tournament only for European cricket teams.
MCC supports the idea of hosting Euro National Cup
The European Cricket League is planned for both men’s and women’s cricket. To invent the cricket league, the European countries are in constant touch with the England and Wales Cricket Board, as England can be at the center of the stage to attract attention and audience.
The proposed plan for a tournament involving European teams was approved by the Melbourne Cricket Club (MCC) as the tournament could increase the popularity of cricket in European countries. It was earlier reported that England had also been invited to join the league.
England’s outlook now doubtful
The ECB was reportedly initially interested in being a part of the proposed league, but backed out due to its international scheduling commitments. Now, as per BBC Sport report, the European Cricket Board has asked the ECB to host the final of the tournament at Lord’s, which will be a T20 format competition. The ECB has reportedly rejected the proposal.
“However, it is understood that the ECB has indicated that they will not sign the necessary staging agreements for T20 International tournaments to be held under their jurisdiction,” BCC Sport noted in its report.
“One source indicated that the ECB is anticipating blowback from counties over holding international cricket in England alongside the domestic season.”
Earlier this year, organizers were optimistic about England’s active participation in the league. But now, the scenario is taking a different shape as the Three Lions are now looking more skeptical and candid. Without the ECB’s support, will other European countries be able to arrange tournaments? This question is already beginning to arise because the gap between European teams is huge.
Would it be possible to host a pan-European cricket tournament?
While the ECB has been one of the most impressive cricket governing bodies with world-class facilities and all the facilities to host international matches and tournaments, other notable European teams like Ireland, Scotland and the Netherlands are miles behind.
Apart from these four countries, other European countries have very little infrastructure for cricket, with limited resources, and hosting a multi-nation tournament is looking like a possibility. It would be a big deal if Ireland, Scotland and Netherlands are successful in hosting the European T20 tournament without the support of the ECB.
As of now, nothing has been finalized yet; speaking terms. It is also believed that the ECB may have to deal with its county teams if they allow an outdoor tournament at their major grounds amid a busy schedule.