ETPL 2026 Player Draft: Three Emerging Batters Who Could Be Hot Picks

At the inaugural ETPL Player draft, the six franchises will be looking for batters who can do more than just score runs. In T20 cricket, the best picks are often players who can bring intent, tempo and match-winning ability to their game from the very first ball they face. 

The ETPL Player draft has 270 players – trimmed down from the hundreds of eligible male cricketers who registered for the draft. 

Here’s our pick of 3 little known players, who could be hot picks at the draft on Thursday, July 2:  

Michael Levitt (The Netherlands): He brings the kind of fearless approach every T20 team wants at the top of the order. As an opener, his biggest strength is the ability to put pressure on bowlers early and give his side momentum in the powerplay. In a format where the first six overs can shape the entire match, Levitt could be the kind of pick that immediately gives a franchise a bold, attacking identity. 

Tim Tector (Ireland): What makes this opening batter exciting is his intent and modern batting mindset. He looks like the type of player who wants to move the game forward, not just occupy the crease. For franchises building a balanced squad, that is valuable. He can be used flexibly, whether as a top-order option or someone who can control the middle overs and keep the scoreboard moving. Tector feels like a smart long-term pick with strong, bold future. Did you know that Tim is Harry Tector’s younger brother?  

Ross Adair (Ireland): This 32-year old brings a proven power-hitting profile and gives teams a serious attacking option at the top. In T20 cricket, franchises are always looking for batters who can take the game away quickly, and Adair fits that mould. He has the ability to clear the boundary, shift momentum and make an immediate impact, which makes him a strong candidate to be one of the hot picks in the draft. 

For ETPL teams, the draft will not only be about selecting the biggest names. It will be about finding players who fit the brand of cricket each franchise wants to play. 
Levitt brings explosiveness. Tector brings youthful intent. Adair brings proven firepower. 
Together, they represent the kind of batting talent ETPL can showcase, players ready to use this platform to step into a bigger spotlight. 

On Thursday, the franchises will have their squads, and for these three batters, the draft could be the beginning of something potentially life-changing.