The European Nations Cup could be launched in 2027 with Irish Cricket announcing its plans

The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) held talks with Cricket Ireland about the idea during the white-ball series last September.

England’s presence will add commercial clout to the tournament and make it more attractive to broadcasters as well as stadium support given the lack of international standard stadiums elsewhere.

Officials at the European Central Bank have been largely lukewarm on the idea when similar proposals have been floated in the past.

However, the performances of other European teams in the recent T20 World Cup – both Italy and Scotland held England close – and encouragement from the International Cricket Council have given the ECB food for thought.

With qualification for the 2028 T20 World Cup already assured for England, thanks to qualification to the Super 8s, the European Championship is likely to provide an opportunity for emerging players.

When asked if the ECB would be supportive, MacNeice was not specific: “In principle, it’s really easy to do. There are practicalities of logistics and existing radio broadcasts and all that kind of thing.”

“This is the complex kind of piece that has to be put together. So this is a work in progress, but what I honestly believe is that it is much more than just a fantasy idea.”

“This time last year, it was a fantasy idea. Now it’s much further along. It’s not quite there yet, but it’s very much in that direction.”

“We’ve definitely started thinking about how we can save space and incorporate it into our future plans.”