“It was a wonderful morning”: Scotland star Michael Leask will always remember the inaugural ETPL Draft day  

For Michael Leask, the inaugural European T20 Premier League Player Draft was more than just another milestone in an already accomplished career. It was the beginning of a new chapter with Glasgow Cosmic, the franchise representing his home city and one that has placed Scottish cricket at the heart of its identity.

A mainstay of Scotland's white-ball side for more than a decade, the 35 year-old all-rounder has built a reputation as one of the country's finest all-rounders, capable of changing games with explosive batting, off-spin and outstanding athleticism. Now, he will bring that experience to the ETPL after hearing his name called during the league's historic first-ever draft.

Watching the selections unfold from home, Leask admitted the experience was unlike anything he had experienced before.

"It was a wonderful morning. I was watching the draft with anxiousness and a bit of intrigue because, obviously, you want your name to come out. It was a massive moment for everyone from Scotland, Ireland and the Netherlands who got picked," Leask, who has played over 170 international matches for Scotland said.

As the draft progressed, anticipation grew. Then came the message that confirmed his next destination.

"I was sitting downstairs with my phone, having a cup of coffee with the family, when I got a message from George Munsey just as my name was getting pulled out saying, 'Welcome to Glasgow.' It was a really nice moment, especially knowing you've got a few familiar faces around," Leask recalled.

Those familiar faces are a key part of the Glasgow Cosmic team's vision. The franchise selected five Scottish players during the draft, ensuring the squad has a strong local core.

For Leask, that combination of continuity and ambition made the moment even more special. Having shared dressing rooms with many of his new teammates while representing Scotland, he now has the opportunity to help build something entirely new in the inaugural ETPL season.

After years of representing Scotland on the international stage, Leask's next challenge will come much closer to home. And if his reaction on draft day is any indication, wearing the Glasgow Cosmic colours is a journey he cannot wait to begin.