Rajasthan-born cricketer Jai Moondra, who recently played a starring role in Ireland’s historic T20I series victory over India, was selected by Rotterdam Dockers during the inaugural European T20 Premier League (ETPL) Player Draft held on Thursday.
The six ETPL franchises assembled their squads by drafting 36 players, comprising 12 each from Ireland, Scotland and the Netherlands, ahead of the league’s inaugural season.
Jai Moondra Joins Rotterdam Dockers
Rotterdam Dockers made Moondra their first pick in the player draft after the young pacer impressed on the international stage.
Moondra was named Player of the Series during Ireland’s landmark T20I triumph over India, where he consistently troubled the Indian batting line-up. Notably, he dismissed Sanju Samson in both matches, making the wicketkeeper-batter his “bunny” during the series.
Dockers Build Strong Squad
Alongside Moondra, Rotterdam Dockers strengthened their squad by signing several prominent Netherlands internationals, including:
- Michael Levitt
- Ryan Klein
- Vikramjit Singh
- Saqib Zulfiqar
The franchise also added Scotland’s Jasper Davidson to bolster its roster.
Other Notable Draft Picks
The draft saw franchises distribute talent evenly across the three participating nations.
- Edinburgh Castle Rockers and Glasgow Cosmic selected nine of the 12 Scottish players.
- Dublin Guardians and Belfast Wolves drafted seven of the 12 Irish players.
- Dutch internationals were largely split between Amsterdam Flames and Rotterdam Dockers.
Belfast Wolves also secured experienced Ireland captain Paul Stirling along with promising left-arm spinner Matthew Humphreys.
Jonty Rhodes Delighted With Moondra Signing
Rotterdam Dockers co-owner Jonty Rhodes expressed his excitement after securing the India-born fast bowler.
“Jai Moondra was someone we were particularly keen to bring into the squad after the way he has announced himself on the international stage.”
“He is an exciting young talent with tremendous potential, and we’re delighted to have secured him.”
Moondra’s selection caps a remarkable rise for the Rajasthan-born cricketer, whose performances against India have quickly established him as one of Ireland’s brightest emerging talents.