The European T20 Premier League (ETPL) is gearing up for its inaugural season, and two high-profile names from the world of sports and entertainment are betting on cricket’s future in Europe. Former South African player Jonty Rhodes and Bollywood actor John Abraham are among the co-owners of Rotterdam Dockers, one of the teams in the new league.

The team launched its official jersey on Monday, with Rhodes and Abraham hogging the spotlight at the launch event. The tournament is scheduled to begin on August 26.

Rhodes has previously coached the Swedish national team. He sees Europe as a centre for emerging cricket talent, and it is one of the biggest reasons for his involvement in the project.

“We’ve had only a few months, from February until now, to put the team together, so it has been a really exciting journey. ETPL had tried to launch a few years ago, and now to see it finally taking shape is very exciting for me as a co-owner,” Rhodes said.

He also feels that the European cricket landscape has evolved since his time in Sweden.

“When I lived in Sweden and coached the national team, there was only one Swedish player in the squad. The difference in Europe today is that it’s a small market, but there are a lot of local players and a growing pool of talent. A platform like ETPL can give these players the opportunity and exposure they need.”

The Proteas legend feels that the European T20 Premier League has the potential to build a good audience.

“There is also a strong local flavour to the league. You have to attract people from other sports and bring them into cricket. That’s how you build a wider audience and grow the game,” he added.

Abraham, on the other hand, sees ETPL as an opportunity to make a pathway for young players. He also feels that this decision can bring international expertise into European cricket and help it grow.

“I was fortunate to be coached by Rohit Sharma’s coach, Lad Sir, and today, to be part of this cricket ecosystem through ETPL, alongside partners like Jonty Rhodes, feels truly special and grateful,” Abraham said.

He also pointed out the South African influence in Rotterdam Dockers. Rhodes and former South Africa captain Faf du Plessis are involved with the franchise.

“ETPL is here to create opportunities for young talent and give them a platform to showcase themselves. With Rotterdam Dockers, there is a strong South African influence on both the team and the culture around it.”

The ETPL is set to begin on August 26. Rotterdam Dockers will face Amsterdam Flames in the opener in Voorburg. Meanwhile, Rhodes and Abraham are hoping that the franchise becomes part of a larger push to establish cricket as a mainstream sport in Europe.