The ECB has poured cold water on the prospect of England taking part in a proposed Euro Nations Cup in 2027, with chief executive Richard Gould saying the board is not looking to add to an already crowded international schedule.
The idea was floated publicly this month by Cricket Ireland chair Brian MacNeice, who said he was “very passionate” about the prospect of a European tournament on the lines of the Asia Cup. The proposed event would feature men’s and women’s T20 competitions involving Ireland, England, Scotland, the Netherlands and potentially Italy.
Speaking at the ECB’s domestic season launch at Lord’s, Gould said the idea had appeal but indicated that England had no room to accommodate it in the men’s calendar.
“It’s a very nice idea,” Gould said. “Our schedule is absolutely jam-packed, and we’re not looking to add to our schedule.”
MacNeice had earlier said the proposal had been under discussion for some time and that he “fundamentally” believed in it. He also said the conversations had “developed and evolved” to a point where he was “much more confident that it is going to happen”.
A successful launch, however, would depend heavily on England’s involvement. ESPNcricinfo reported that while the ECB remains open to discussions, it does not believe the tournament would be viable without confirmed broadcast interest.
Ireland’s wider plans and England series context
England toured Ireland for three T20Is in September last year, though one of those matches was washed out. The two boards have also provisionally agreed to another three-match T20I series in 2029. Cricket Ireland hopes those fixtures could become the first internationals staged at its new national stadium at Abbotstown in Dublin.
The ECB’s reluctance comes amid a packed forward programme. England’s 2026 home season already includes assignments against New Zealand, Pakistan, India, Ireland and Sri Lanka, while England is also set to host the Women’s T20 World Cup next year.
For Cricket Ireland, the Euro Nations Cup proposal is part of a broader attempt to strengthen its international calendar and create more regular opportunities across both the men’s and women’s games. The board has also moved to build strategic ties with other countries as it looks to expand fixtures and pathways.
Gould also pushed back against suggestions that England’s domestic summer would begin under a cloud following criticism of the England men’s environment from several recently dropped players.
“I really don’t agree with that,” Gould said. “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.”
On players speaking out after being left out, 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.”
