Overseas Stars Like Maxwell And Miller Are Guiding Local Players Via ETPL, Says Stirling

Overseas Stars Lending a Hand to Local Talent via ETPL – Stirling

Glenn Maxwell, David Miller, Devon Conway, Chris Jordan and Mark Chapman aren't just filling out the Belfast Wolves lineup – they're mentoring the homegrown kids too, according to team captain Stuart Stirling. The six-team ETPL tournament (two sides each from Ireland, Scotland & Holland) kicked off in Voorburg, NL, before moving to Dublin's Malahide CC from Sep 9, with the final on Sep 20.

Where Things Stand

Belfast sit 2nd on the points table, well-placed for the knockouts. Stirling himself has 108 runs in four games so far.

More Than Just Runs on the Board

"High-profile players, sure, but it's not just what they give on the field – it's the experience they pass to the young locals," Stirling told IANS. The real learning happens off-pitch too: over coffee, around the hotel, ideas flowing between nations, not just teammates.

Why It Matters

Stirling sees this as a genuine milestone – a full-time career path outside national team cricket. "Back in 2008 I was semi-pro. Only 7-8 full contracts existed in Ireland. Now? Fully contracted players from 2023+. It's huge for the game here."

He pointed to Ireland beating holders India 20 in a home T20I series this June as proof the system is working.

Belfast Wolves: Ready to Go

"Probably one of the best setups I've been part of – spot on from day one." No new-competition lag here.

Looking Ahead

The next Irish generation has everything it needs. "It's your responsibility when you take the shirt to be better than before."

Source: IANS

Source: Cricketnmore