Major League Cricket (MLC) starts June 13, 2025. The much-anticipated third season has officially begun, marking another significant milestone in the growth of cricket in the United States. Now in its third year, the league has gained global recognition for attracting international stars and nurturing American cricket talent. This season is expected to draw even more attention, especially with a historic face-off between cricket giants India and hosts USA during the opening weekend.
All Eyes on the India vs USA Showdown
One of the most anticipated fixtures of the tournament is the high-stakes match between India and the United States, scheduled to take place shortly after the MLC’s launch. While the match isn’t part of the regular franchise schedule, it has been strategically arranged as a special exhibition fixture to boost international interest and celebrate the rapid rise of cricket in the U.S.
This clash is historic for several reasons. It marks India’s first official match on U.S. soil in a competitive cricket setting, and it offers the American squad an unmatched opportunity to compete against one of the world’s best teams. The match will be played at Grand Prairie Stadium in Texas, a venue that has become the hub of cricketing activity in the U.S.
Fans can expect top Indian players such as Rohit Sharma, Suryakumar Yadav, and Jasprit Bumrah to feature in the game, depending on final squad selections. For Team USA, this is a moment to shine, with players like Ali Khan, Steven Taylor, and Monank Patel aiming to prove that American cricket can hold its own against elite opposition.
Six Franchises Battle for the 2025 Title
While the India vs USA match is a major highlight, the main tournament will see six franchise teams compete in a round-robin format followed by playoffs:
- Los Angeles Knight Riders
- MI New York
- Texas Super Kings
- San Francisco Unicorns
- Seattle Orcas
- Washington Freedom
MI New York, the defending champions, will aim to continue their dominance, with core players like Nicholas Pooran and Trent Boult expected to return. Other teams have also revamped their squads during the offseason to increase their chances of lifting the trophy on July 14, the scheduled date for the grand final.
Strategic Growth and World Cup Preparation
The 2025 MLC season also plays a crucial role in preparation for the ICC T20 World Cup 2026, which the U.S. will co-host with the West Indies. The league offers a perfect platform to assess the depth and readiness of the U.S. national team. It also acts as a trial run for stadium readiness, fan engagement, and broadcast infrastructure ahead of the global event.
Rising Popularity and Future Expansion
With growing interest in cities like Chicago, Atlanta, and Miami, MLC is also exploring future franchise expansions. The success of the 2025 season, particularly the buzz around the India vs USA clash, could accelerate these plans and help the league tap into a wider sports audience across the country.
Conclusion:
As the MLC 2025 season begins, all eyes will be on the India vs USA match — a symbolic moment for American cricket and a thrilling start to what promises to be a landmark season for the sport in North America.
