The European Cricket Association (ECA) has announced that it will introduce a new continental tournament the European Champions Trophy starting in 2026. The competition will feature national club champions from across Europe and will be played in the T20I format.
During its annual conference held last week in Istanbul, the ECA invited member nations to submit bids to host the inaugural event. The deadline for hosting proposals is January 31, 2026, with final selections expected the following month.
Alongside the new T20I tournament, the ECA revealed that it is studying the commercial possibilities of the T10 format. According to the association, a detailed feasibility review is underway, with recommendations set to be presented to the Executive Committee in the first quarter of 2026. The goal is to explore how T10 competitions could support financial growth and stability for its member federations.
Representatives from all 13 national cricket federations attended the Congress, which proceeded with full voting authority after quorum was confirmed. The agenda covered governance, competition structure, and regulatory matters.
The ECA also held board elections. Romania’s Gabriel Marin was elected president, while Norway’s Yousuf Gilani became the first vice-president. New vice-presidents include Gurumurty Palani of France, Mohammad Bilal Zalmani of Austria, and Indika Thilan Perera of Malta.
In line with Article 7 of the ECA’s Articles of Association, the board has expanded to its full 11-member capacity. Newly appointed board members are Nicolas Fournarakis (Greece), Nikolay Kolev (Bulgaria), Abdul Shakoor (Romania), Nahit Sahin (Türkiye), Sarah Gomersall (Jersey), and Luca Bruno Malaspina (Italy).
The Congress outlined the ECA’s strategic direction for the next four years, confirming plans for upcoming European Championships for both men and women, as well as a major focus on establishing the Under-19 European Championship. Grassroots growth and community engagement were also highlighted as key priorities.
ECA president Gabriel Marin said the organisation is committed to strengthening cricket’s presence across Europe—not only as a competitive sport but also as a means of education, integration, and social unity. He expressed confidence that the association is positioned for long-term success within the European sports ecosystem.
