Rahul Dravid Buys Dublin T20 Franchise
Former India captain and coach Rahul Dravid has entered franchise ownership after being announced as the co-owner of Dublin Guardians in the European T20 Premier League, with Ravichandran Ashwin named captain.
Rahul Dravid Joins European T20 Premier League
Dravid has joined the upcoming European T20 Premier League as part of the ownership group of Dublin Guardians. The league is scheduled to begin in September 2026 and will feature six city-based teams from Ireland, Scotland and the Netherlands.
The move marks a major Indian cricket presence in a tournament designed to expand the sport’s reach in Europe.
Ravichandran Ashwin Named Dublin Guardians Captain
Ravichandran Ashwin will lead Dublin Guardians in the inaugural season. His appointment gives the new franchise an experienced Indian cricketer with a strong record across formats and T20 leagues.
Ashwin’s presence is expected to bring tactical depth to the team, while Dravid’s involvement adds credibility and global attention to the new competition.
ETPL Teams And Cricket Expansion In Europe
The European T20 Premier League will include teams from Dublin, Belfast, Edinburgh, Glasgow, Rotterdam and Amsterdam. The tournament is backed by the cricket boards of Ireland, Scotland and the Netherlands.
Several former international cricketers are also linked with team ownership, including Chris Gayle, Glenn Maxwell, Steve Waugh, Faf du Plessis, Jonty Rhodes, Heinrich Klaasen, Nathan McCullum and Kyle Mills. Bollywood actor Abhishek Bachchan is also among the league’s prominent backers.
