Daijiworld Media Network - Glasgow
Glasgow, Jun 9: Former Australian batting great and World Cup winner Matthew Hayden has been appointed co-owner and head coach of Glasgow Cosmic ahead of the inaugural season of the European T20 Premier League, providing a major boost to the franchise’s ambitions.
One of the most prolific opening batters in international cricket, Hayden said the club’s long-term vision and commitment to excellence convinced him to take up the role.
According to Hayden, the opportunity to help build a strong cricketing culture from the ground up was particularly appealing. He emphasised that successful teams are built on clear values, strong leadership and a shared sense of purpose, adding that he is eager to contribute to the franchise's growth both on and off the field.
The former Australian star also underlined the importance of creating an environment where players can thrive, develop their skills and perform consistently under pressure. He described the ETPL as an exciting platform that can accelerate cricket’s expansion into emerging European markets while inspiring future generations of players.
Glasgow Cosmic's management welcomed Hayden’s appointment, stating that his vast international experience, leadership credentials and global stature will play a crucial role in shaping the club’s identity and competitive future.
The franchise has assembled an impressive squad featuring international stars such as Finn Allen, Liam Livingstone, Josh Philippe, Moises Henriques, Kamindu Mendis, Keshav Maharaj, Lungi Ngidi, Gerhard Erasmus, Duan Jansen and Ali Khan.
The squad also includes Scotland’s leading cricketers, notably national captain Richie Berrington and star opener George Munsey, reflecting the franchise’s commitment to developing and promoting local talent.
The ETPL, officially sanctioned by the International Cricket Council in November last year, is a collaborative venture involving the cricket boards of Ireland, Scotland and Netherlands. The league aims to elevate the profile of European cricket and create new opportunities for players across the region.
The tournament's inaugural season is scheduled to run from August 26 to September 20, featuring six franchises from Glasgow, Amsterdam, Edinburgh, Belfast, Dublin and Rotterdam competing across 33 matches.
Earlier this month, former India head coach and batting legend Rahul Dravid was unveiled as the owner of the Dublin franchise, further enhancing the league’s profile ahead of its highly anticipated launch in 2026.
With Hayden now at the helm, Glasgow Cosmic will be hoping to establish itself as one of the flagship teams in what promises to be a transformative chapter for European cricket.