Major League Cricket (United States) 2026/27

Major League Cricket sits at the summit of professional cricket in the United States, operating as a closed, single-entity franchise league. Unlike traditional models, it plans to expand to ten teams via new franchises rather than promotion or relegation. The format involves a double round-robin group stage where each of the six teams plays every other team twice. The top four teams advance to playoffs: a Qualifier, an Eliminator, an Eliminator 2, and the Final.

This structure mirrors North American sports models, using a centralized player draft for domestic players and direct signings for internationals. The league distinguishes itself from Minor League Cricket, which serves as a club-based developmental circuit. Venues include converted baseball stadiums like Grand Prairie Stadium and Oakland Coliseum, alongside new cricket-specific grounds like the Knight Riders Cricket Ground in Irvine.

MI New York won the inaugural 2023 season, followed by Washington Freedom in 2024, MI New York in 2025, and Los Angeles Knight Riders in 2026. The league received official List A status from the International Cricket Council in May 2024. Cognizant serves as the first title sponsor. The competition is sanctioned by USA Cricket and recognized by the ICC, ensuring its standing within the global game. This setup allows for a distinct identity separate from international tournaments like the T20 World Cup.

The league's approach to governance and player acquisition sets it apart from other domestic competitions. By adopting a franchise model similar to those in the United States and Canada, it aims to cultivate a sustainable professional environment. The focus remains on delivering high-quality Twenty20 cricket to American audiences while developing local talent through structured pathways. The inclusion of international stars alongside homegrown players creates a competitive balance that attracts attention from cricket enthusiasts worldwide.