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

By Pramit Meher

**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