Edinburgh Castle Rockers Clinch Inaugural ETPL Title
The seven-wicket win in Malahide is being framed by organisers as proof the ICC‑sanctioned, two‑hub franchise model can boost professional cricket pathways across Europe.
Overview
- Edinburgh Castle Rockers defeated the Belfast Wolves by seven wickets in the ETPL final at Malahide to become the competition’s first champions.
- Andries Gous anchored the chase with an unbeaten 90 from 61 balls as Edinburgh reached 151 for three with eight balls to spare.
- Edinburgh captain Mitchell Santner elected to bowl after winning the toss and his attack, led by Trent Boult, Mark Watt and JJ Smuts, restricted Belfast to 150 for five.
- Players and staff highlighted squad unity and local talent after the win, with coach Trevor Bayliss and co‑owner Kyle Mills noting the tournament’s role in giving regional players exposure alongside internationals.
- The inaugural ETPL used a two‑hub format with league matches in the Netherlands and knockouts in Ireland and carried ICC recognition and broadcast deals that organisers say could expand pro opportunities in European cricket.