The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) has rejected proposals to stage the final of an annual T20 tournament for European nations at Lord’s Cricket Ground.
Talks regarding the creation of a men’s and women’s Euro Nations Cup commenced earlier this year, with cricket boards from Ireland, Scotland, and the Netherlands collaborating on the initiative.
Initially, organizers aimed to launch the tournament in the early summer of next year, with the Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC) expressing support and offering Lord’s as a potential venue.
The MCC had also indicated that Wormsley, the estate linked to Sir Paul Getty and part of a strategic partnership with the MCC, could host additional fixtures. However, the ECB declined to approve the necessary staging agreement for a T20 international event within its jurisdiction.
Sources suggest the ECB’s decision stems from concerns over potential backlash from county teams, as the proposed tournament would coincide with the domestic season. In March, ECB chief executive Richard Gould highlighted logistical challenges in aligning the event with England’s existing international calendar.
While earlier discussions had hinted at optimism around England’s participation and ECB involvement, the governing body has not provided further comment on the matter.