The fourth season of Major League Cricket (MLC) begins June 18, with six franchises, a new California venue and an expanded roster of international stars highlighting the rapid growth of professional cricket in the United States ahead of the sport’s return to the Olympics in Los Angeles in 2028.
The month-long Twenty20 tournament will run from June 18 to July 18, featuring 34 matches across Texas and California. Defending champion MI New York enters the season seeking a third title after edging Washington Freedom by five runs in last year’s final.
League organizers say the 2025 season was the most successful in MLC’s short history, with ticket sales rising 53% year-over-year, broadcasts reaching more than 90 countries and a large majority of spectators attending their first MLC match.
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This year’s tournament introduces the Knight Riders Cricket Field at Fairplex in Pomona, California, replacing Broward County Stadium in Florida. The Oakland Coliseum will also host the playoffs and championship match for the first time, reflecting MLC’s growing footprint on the U.S. West Coast.
The season opens June 18 with Texas Super Kings facing Seattle Orcas at Grand Prairie Stadium in Texas. The six teams will play a double round-robin schedule before the top four advance to the playoffs.
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MLC’s appeal continues to be fueled by its mix of global cricket stars and emerging American talent. Former India off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin is among the notable additions this season, joining the San Francisco Unicorns and becoming one of the highest-profile Indian players to participate in the league.
Several franchises have strengthened their squads in pursuit of the title. Los Angeles Knight Riders have made strategic additions as they look to improve on previous seasons, while Washington Freedom aims to build on another strong campaign after finishing atop the standings in 2025.