The inaugural edition of the ETPL will take place from August 26 to September 20. Five of the six franchises have been sold, with one team still under negotiation. The tournament aims to boost cricket in Europe and create pathways for local talent.

Du Plessis stated, “It’s not your overseas players that win you competitions, it’s the local players.” He believes that local Dutch players will be crucial for the success of his team. His experience in franchise leagues around the world gives him confidence in the ETPL’s potential.

Rhodes added, “The ETPL offers exactly that, creating pathways to identify, nurture, and scale talent, ultimately strengthening the game across Europe.” He expressed excitement about this new venture but also acknowledged some apprehension, saying, “It is an exciting place to be, (but) it’s a bit scary.”

The total value of the franchises sold over a 10-year period is estimated at £11.1 million. The league represents a new chapter for cricket in Europe, especially after notable successes by the Netherlands against teams like England and South Africa.

The post Faf du Plessis Takes Ownership Role in European T20 Premier League appeared first on berightnews.

On March 29, 2026, Virat Kohli made a remarkable return to franchise cricket after a long hiatus since the previous year’s final. The atmosphere was electric as fans eagerly awaited his performance in the IPL match between Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) and Sunrisers Hyderabad.

Kohli took to the pitch with determination, scoring an unbeaten 69 runs off just 38 balls. His innings included an impressive display of power hitting, featuring 5 fours and 5 sixes, showcasing a classic mix of control and aggression.

RCB secured a convincing victory against Sunrisers Hyderabad by 6 wickets, with Kohli’s performance being a pivotal factor in the win. “It felt special to return to this stage after a long time,” Kohli remarked, reflecting on his comeback.

This match marked a significant moment for Kohli, who had not played franchise cricket since the previous year’s final. His return not only energized the team but also reignited the excitement among fans who have long awaited his comeback.

Kohli’s strategy of taking breaks to avoid fatigue appears to have paid off, as he returned mentally refreshed and ready to perform at his best. His performance has set a high standard for the rest of the tournament.

As the IPL 2026 season progresses, Kohli’s form will be crucial for RCB’s aspirations. His ability to lead from the front and deliver under pressure will be closely watched by fans and analysts alike.

With this victory, RCB aims to build momentum in the tournament, and Kohli’s leadership will be instrumental in their quest for the title. The cricketing world is keen to see how he continues to perform in the upcoming matches.

As of now, Kohli’s return has not only boosted RCB’s morale but has also reignited discussions about his legacy in the sport. His performance in this match is a testament to his enduring talent and dedication to the game.

In summary, Virat Kohli’s return to IPL has been marked by a stellar performance, and it remains to be seen how he will influence the rest of the season for RCB and his own career.

The post विराट कोहली: Virat Kohli Shines in IPL 2026 Return with Unbeaten 69 Runs appeared first on berightnews.

Ashton Turner, the newly appointed captain of Multan Sultans, is stepping into a pivotal role as the franchise gears up for the Pakistan Super League (PSL) 11. The tournament, which runs from March 26 to May 3, 2026, marks a new chapter for the Sultans, who have undergone a significant overhaul in both their squad and coaching staff. This season, the PSL will feature eight teams for the first time, with Multan Sultans set to open their campaign against Islamabad United at Gaddafi Stadium.

Before this development, Multan Sultans were known for their consistent performances in the PSL, but the recent changes have raised expectations. The franchise has built a strong identity around disciplined cricket, efficient bowling strategies, and a reliable batting unit. However, the new management structure and squad overhaul signal a decisive shift in their approach. Turner emphasized the positive atmosphere created by the new management, stating, “We have a new squad and a newly assembled coaching staff. It’s a really exciting time. That’s the nature of modern franchise cricket.”

The immediate impact of Turner’s leadership is already being felt. The Multan Sultans are not only looking to establish a fresh identity but also aiming to capitalize on the talent pool available in Pakistan. Turner remarked, “We’re excited. As you mentioned, there are so many talented players here in Pakistan, and being part of this competition is truly exciting.” This enthusiasm reflects a broader ambition to write a new chapter in the franchise’s history.

As the PSL 11 season unfolds, the Sultans will play a total of 44 matches over 39 days, culminating in playoffs and a final staged in Lahore. The tournament’s logistics have also been revised, with matches to be played behind closed doors, a decision that underscores the ongoing challenges faced by sports leagues worldwide. Despite this, the excitement surrounding the tournament remains palpable, particularly for a team like Multan Sultans that is eager to prove itself under new leadership.

Turner, who has previously highlighted the PSL as one of the best competitions for franchise cricketers globally, is keen to leverage this opportunity. He stated, “The PSL is becoming one of the best competitions for franchise cricketers in the world. We have the opportunity in Multan to write the first page of our history.” This perspective not only reflects his personal aspirations but also resonates with the team’s collective goal of making a significant mark in the tournament.

The Multan Sultans’ recent squad overhaul, driven by new franchise ownership, has injected fresh energy into the team. This change is crucial as they aim to maintain their reputation as one of the most consistent teams in the PSL over the past few seasons. The combination of a new captain, a revamped squad, and an ambitious coaching staff sets the stage for a thrilling season ahead.

As the tournament kicks off, all eyes will be on Turner and the Multan Sultans to see how they navigate the challenges and opportunities presented by PSL 11. With the stakes high and the competition fierce, the Sultans are poised to make a statement in this year’s league. The anticipation is building, and fans are eager to witness how this new chapter unfolds for Ashton Turner and his team.

The post Ashton Turner Leads Multan Sultans into PSL 11 appeared first on berightnews.