The USA co-hosted the T20 World Cup 2024 with much fanfare, bringing the grand stage to the locals. Now, the country is all set to host the second season of Major League Cricket (MLC) in July 2024.
The inaugural edition of the MLC was a major success, as cricketing stars from around the globe showcased their talent, along with the local players. The 2024 edition also promises to bring out thrilling performances, with many big names landing in the USA.
But when does the MLC 2024 kick-off?
MLC 2024 will begin on July 5, with MI New York taking on Seattle Orcas in the tournament opener. The league will see a total of 25 matches played, including the 4 playoff games. The final match of the tournament is slated for July 28.
How many teams are participating in MLC 2024?
Like in the previous edition, 6 franchises — 4 owned by IPL franchises — are in the running to become champions. The MLC teams are Los Angeles Knight Riders, MI New York, Seattle Orcas, Texas Super Kings (these 4 are owned by IPL franchises), San Francisco Unicorns, and Washington Freedom.
In the future, the league might expand to 10 teams, having secured List A status from the ICC and growing interest in cricket among locals.
What is the format of MLC 2024?
Last year, each team played 5 games in the league stage, followed by the playoffs. This time around, teams will play 7 games each.
The top 4 teams will advance to the playoffs, with the top 2 teams playing the Qualifier and the No. 3 and No. 4 teams squaring off in the Eliminator. The Qualifier winner will straight away move into the Final, while the Eliminator winner will take on the Qualifier loser to decide the other finalist.
Which venues will host the games? Will New York’s Nassau Country Stadium host any games?
Well, the modular stadium built in Nassau County for the T20 World Cup 2024 won’t host any MLC games. Like in the first season, Church Street Park in Morrisville and Grand Prairie Stadium in Texas will host all the matches.
Also Read | The Top 3 Cricket Stadiums in the USA
Who are the international stars on the roster?
Pat Cummins is a big signing in the MLC 2024, along with his Australian teammates Steven Smith, Glenn Maxwell, and Tavis Head. T20 globetrotters like Andre Russell, Sunil Narine, Kieron Pollard, and Rashid Khan will be back in action this season.
What about the local talent?
The USA players showcased their mettle in the T20 World Cup 2024, and they must be raring to go in the MLC.
The USA captain, Monank Patel, will turn up for MI New York after recovering from a shoulder injury. Whereas their pace spearhead, Saurabh Netravalkar, will take time off his work and play for Washington Freedom.
Pocket Dynamo, Aaron Jones, will smash his way onto the crease for Seattle Orcas, along with teammate Harmeet Singh.
You can check out the schedule and full squads for all teams here.
Where to catch all the live action of MLC 2024?
Sony Sports Network has bagged the broadcasting rights to MLC 2024, and they will telecast the league on TV in India. Moreover, Jio Cinema will livestream the tournament on their app and website.
Willow by Cricbuzz will broadcast the matches in the USA and Canada, along with select regional sports networks.
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