Australian star 'super proud' after being named owner of Belfast-based team for inaugural European T20 Premier League
Australian star Glenn Maxwell admits he’s “super proud” after being unveiled as the franchise owner for Belfast-based Irish Wolves ahead of this summer’s inaugural European T20 Premier League (ETPL).
Maxwell, who has represented his country nearly 300 times across all formats, has developed a reputation for being one of the most aggressive and entertaining cricketers in the world, earning the nickname ‘Big Show’.
Alongside Rohan Lund, Maxwell has been announced as owner of the Belfast team, who will play their home matches at Stormont, and is also set to captain the side.
Following the postponement of the Euro Slam, a similar Twenty20 franchise venture, in 2019 despite a player draft taking place, ETPL is set to launch on August 26, bringing some of the world’s best cricketers to these shores.
A six-team competition, Amsterdam, Edinburgh, Dublin, Glasgow and Rotterdam will also be represented as the boards of Ireland, Scotland and the Netherlands come together.
Australian legend Steve Waugh has been unveiled as Amsterdam Flames owner with Mitchell Marsh and Steve Smith set to feature, while ex-New Zealand international Nathan McCullum, the brother of current England coach Brendon, is involved with the Edinburgh Castle Rockets.
The August-September window means ETPL is set to avoid clashing with The Hundred in England and Major League Cricket in the United States, potentially allowing more high-profile players to participate.
"I am thrilled to be involved with the Irish Wolves, where we will build a culture of fun, family and playing without fear,” said Maxwell. “The Irish people love their sport and Cricket Ireland have made huge strides in expanding the game over the last two decades.
"The Wolves and the European T20 Premier League will accelerate that growth and I feel super proud to be leading the franchise in its inaugural year.”