ECB rules out England’s participation in Euro Nations Cup, cites busy schedule
Published - 01 Apr 2026, 05:28 PM | Updated - 01 Apr 2026, 11:34 PM
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The idea of a European version of the Asia Cup has suffered a massive jolt. There have been hopes that England, Ireland, Scotland, the Netherlands, and even Italy will take part in the brand-new Euro Nations Cup in 2027. The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) has made it clear that England will not be part of the proposed tournament.
Cricket Ireland chairman Brian MacNeice was very passionate about the proposed Euro Nations Cup. MacNeice hoped to create a continental event featuring both men and women in the T20 format, similar to the popular Asia Cup format.
England rejects Euro Nations Cup participation due to packed schedule
But the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) has denied every chance of the England team participating in the Euro Nations Cup. The ECB CEO Richard Gould has confirmed their decision during the domestic season launch at Lord’s.
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The Gould admitted that the idea sounded fresh and interesting, but England’s international schedule is already overflowing; that makes it tough to add one more event into the calendar.
Richard Gould said at the launch, as quoted by the Hindustan Times, “It's a very nice idea. Our schedule is absolutely jam-packed, and we’re not looking to add to our schedule.”
England’s 2026 home season alone is packed with series against New Zealand, Pakistan, India, Ireland, and Sri Lanka. Along with that, England will also host the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup next year.
With such tight planning and long tours, the ECB believes the team cannot take on additional commitments without affecting player workload and performance.
Why Cricket Ireland pushes for Euro Nations Cup?
Earlier, Brian MacNeice said that discussions around the Euro Nations Cup had been going on for quite some time and that he felt more confident than ever about the idea becoming a reality. But without England, broadcasters may not show a strong interest.
Ireland and England have been actively playing against each other. Both cricket boards have even agreed to play a three-match T20I series in 2029. Cricket Ireland hopes the upcoming new stadium at Abbotstown in Dublin will be ready to host those T20I matches against England.
The proposed Euro Nations Cup is part of Ireland’s larger mission to strengthen its international structure. They want more regular fixtures for both men’s and women’s teams to increase visibility in European cricket.
ECB reacts to criticism around England’s team environment
Meanwhile, Richard Gould also reacted strongly to talks about a negative atmosphere in the England men's team. This controversy broke out after some recently dropped players shared their frustrations publicly. He dismissed the claims by saying that the start of a new season always brings energy and positivity.
The ECB CEO further explained, “I really don’t agree with that. The start of a new season is always an exciting juncture… All of our metrics are up and positive. Yes, we’ve had a difficult winter, but that’s a road bump that we will get over.”
He also added that players often feel emotional and upset when they are left out of the national squad. Gould added, “When players come out of the England fold, it’s difficult for them… These are competitive men and women seeking to play at the highest standard for as long as they can.”
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Rashmi Wasnik is a passionate content writer with over a decade of experience. She started her journ...
