US Major League Cricket Drawing High-Profile Cricketers With Unrivalled Commercial Opportunities
The US Major League Cricket continues to make waves, signing Australian Test captain Pat Cummins to a substantial four-year deal with the San Francisco Unicorns in the rapidly expanding US T20 tournament. This move underscores the growing appeal of cricket in America, where major commercial opportunities are luring high-profile players.
Cummins’ decision was influenced by the potential long-term prospects beyond cricket and the chance to network in Silicon Valley, a global hub of technology. This strategic signing enhances Major League Cricket’s (MLC) reputation as a premier T20 destination, indicating a power shift from traditional leagues like the Big Bash League in Australia.
The inclusion of Australian stars such as Steve Smith and Glenn Maxwell further boosts the competition, which is in its infancy with just one season completed. Cummins, who last played in the Big Bash in 2018 due to national commitments, has maintained his connection with the league through ambassadorial roles. Despite his success in the IPL, where he earned over $3 million as captain of the Sunrisers this season, Cummins is seeking new challenges and opportunities in the flourishing American cricket scene.
Cummins expressed his optimism for cricket’s future in the US, noting the rapid development of Major League Cricket and the vast market potential. The global connections and extended possibilities offered by the team owners and Silicon Valley’s thriving ecosystem are significant attractions beyond the game itself.
The MLC, scheduled from July 6 to 29 this year following the World Cup, could pose availability challenges for Cummins next year due to a two-Test series in the West Indies during June and July. Joining Cummins at the San Francisco Unicorns this season is batting sensation Jake Fraser-McGurk, further strengthening the team’s lineup. The Washington Freedom has also secured renowned Australians like Glenn Maxwell, Travis Head, and Steve Smith for the upcoming season.
In a significant boost for the league, MLC has gained List A status for its second season, elevating its standing as an official T20 competition with records now contributing to official T20 statistics. As cricket continues to evolve in the USA, stay tuned for more exciting developments in this burgeoning sports market.
