The EUT20 Belgium is set to usher in a new era for cricket in Europe as the continent’s first professional T20 franchise league. Sanctioned by the Belgian Cricket Federation—an associate member of the International Cricket Council—the tournament will be held in Brussels from June 6 to 14, 2026, with live coverage in India on the Sony Sports Network.
At its core, EUT20 Belgium represents cricket’s expansion into new territories and audiences, aiming to establish a strong foothold in Europe while delivering a competitive, global-standard product.
The league features five franchises backed by international investors and marquee players:
- Akcel United Brussels – Owners: Amit Kaushal & Purnima Kaushal | Icon: Shakib Al Hasan
- Antwerp Anchors – Owners: Zaheer Khan & Nagendra Siddoutam | Icon: Andre Russell
- Ghent Gladiators – Owner: Muhammad Shahid Edakandy | Icon: Temba Bavuma
- Liège Red Lions – Owner: Anshadali Mohammadali | Icon: Faf du Plessis
- JB Bruges – Owner: Utsav Sidgel | Icon: Rassie van der Dussen
Franchise ownership is granted for a 10-year term, with teams retaining revenue from kit sponsorships. The league follows a structured 2-4-4-6 development model, ensuring the inclusion of local Belgian talent alongside international stars and emerging associate players. This framework is designed to build sustainable cricketing depth in the region.
The decision to launch the league in Mumbai highlights its strategic focus on India—the global hub of cricket. With Indian investors, familiar international players, and a strong broadcast partnership, the league aims to connect deeply with Indian audiences.
League Chairman Robin Chaudhary emphasised India’s importance, calling it “the heartbeat of cricket globally,” while League Ambassador Eoin Morgan described the tournament as a bold step in expanding cricket beyond traditional boundaries.
The inaugural season will kick off on June 6, 2026, at Hofstade, Belgium, with tickets available on the league’s official website.
