Former India player Ajinkya Rahane has joined Amsterdam Flames for the upcoming European T20 Premier League. The Flames are co-owned by former Australian legend Steve Waugh. The tournament, which has six teams, is set to kick off on 26th August. 

“Cricket has given me so much, and I’ve always believed that players have a responsibility to leave the game stronger than they found it.

Europe is entering an exciting phase and has the potential to become one of cricket’s most promising frontiers,” Ajinkya Rahane said.

“What impressed me about Amsterdam Flames is the ambition to build something meaningful that creates a lasting impact both on and off the field. I’m excited to work alongside the management to build a successful franchise while helping inspire the next generation and strengthen cricket’s future across Europe,” he added.

Co-owner Waugh welcomed the former Indian star to the fold. “Ajinkya Rahane represents everything you want in a professional cricketer—skill, resilience, humility and leadership. Throughout his career he has earned enormous respect across the cricket world, not only for his performances but for the way he has conducted himself on and off the field,” Steve Waugh said.

“I’ve seen first-hand the composure and leadership he brings under pressure, and those qualities help shape winning cultures.

His experience, leadership and character will be invaluable as we build Amsterdam Flames into one of Europe’s premier cricket clubs.”

Tim Thomas, who is the CEO of the team, said, “Rahane’s arrival was a defining moment for the organisation. Signing a player of Ajinkya Rahane’s calibre is a defining moment for Amsterdam Flames. This is about much more than adding an outstanding cricketer; it is about establishing the standards, culture and ambition that will define our club for years to come.” 

Mitchell Marsh set to lead Amsterdam side 

Mitchell Marsh will lead the Flames.

It also has Steve Smith and Tim David. Local talents Max O Dowd, Scott Edwards, Bas de Leede, Aryan Dutt, Tim Pringle, and Kyle Klein are also part of the side. 

David Payne, who played a handful of games for England and was also part of Sunrisers Hyderabad, is also part of the side along with fast bowler Richard Gleeson.

The squad also has Dipendra Singh Airee, the exciting big-hitter from Nepal, as well as Ireland stars like Curtis Campher and Jordan Neill.