MLC Set to Expand with Addition of Two Teams by 2027, Canada Move Considered
Major League Cricket (MLC), the up-and-coming T20 tournament in the USA, is gearing up for a significant expansion, with plans to increase the number of teams from six to eight by 2027. The league is also exploring the possibility of moving into Canada, a move that could have far-reaching implications for the sport.
The cities of Chicago, Philadelphia, Atlanta, and Toronto, all with substantial South Asian communities, are currently on the shortlist for potential team locations. Final decisions are expected to be made this year, with market potential and local government support playing crucial roles in determining the selected cities.
MLC co-founder Satyan Gajwani, along with fellow co-founders Vijay Srinivasan and Sameer Mehta, are set to lead the franchise launches in the new cities. Once the two locations are finalized, investors are likely to come on board to partner with them.
### Expansion Plans and Growth Strategy
The expansion of MLC is not just about adding more teams but also about growing the game of cricket beyond its current fan base in the USA. Gajwani emphasized the importance of expanding into new markets to ensure the long-term relevance and competitiveness of the league.
“We have options ahead of us. I don’t think we’re committed one way or the other right now. That’s realistically a decision we will take closer to launch,” Gajwani told ESPNcricinfo.
The expansion is expected to lead to a longer season with more games, potentially moving towards a home-and-away format where teams play each other twice. Last season’s tournament ran for 23 days in July, overlapping with the Hundred in the UK. The upcoming season is anticipated to be longer, possibly starting in June.
### Infrastructure Challenges and Olympic Prospects
One of the key challenges facing the new franchises is securing suitable infrastructure for hosting games. While existing teams have faced hurdles in this regard, there is optimism that new venues, such as the iconic Oakland Coliseum, could become home grounds for upcoming teams.
Moreover, the prospect of hosting cricket matches at the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics adds an exciting dimension to the expansion plans. Gajwani highlighted the potential for cricket venues to be used during the Olympics, providing an additional incentive for cities vying to become MLC hosts.
### Leadership Changes and Future Outlook
In a significant development, the league announced Johnny Grave as its new CEO, succeeding Srinivasan. Grave, a seasoned figure in cricket administration, expressed his excitement about leading MLC during this transformative phase and contributing to the growth of cricket in the USA.
With ambitious expansion plans, the appointment of new leadership, and the possibility of Olympic involvement, Major League Cricket is poised for a dynamic future that could reshape the landscape of the sport in North America.
Tristan Lavalette is a journalist based in Perth
