Australian fast-bowling superstar Pat Cummins has sent shockwaves through the cricketing world by signing a four-year deal with the San Francisco Unicorns, a franchise in the up-and-coming Major League Cricket (MLC) league in the USA.
Game-Changing move for Pat Cummins and MLC
Pat Cummins’ decision is a significant one. He has rarely ventured outside the established leagues, previously only playing in the Indian Premier League (IPL).
His absence from Australia’s Big Bash League (BBL) since 2018 due to international commitments highlights his focus on the highest level of cricket. However, the lure of the MLC and its future potential has proven irresistible for Cummins.
Business Opportunities Beckon for San Francisco Unicorns
In a statement released by the San Francisco Unicorns, Pat Cummins expressed his excitement about the MLC’s growth and the vast potential of the US market for cricket. However, his motivations extend beyond the sport itself.
The “global network and long-term possibilities” offered by the franchise’s Silicon Valley-based owners are particularly enticing to Cummins.
He sees an opportunity to engage with the business world beyond his cricketing career and is eager to collaborate with the franchise’s co-owners, Anand Rajaraman and Venky Harinarayan, who are prominent figures in the tech industry.
International Cricket vs MLC Commitments
The MLC season runs from July 6th to 29th this year. This timeframe coincides with Australia’s scheduled tour of the West Indies in June-July next year, raising questions about Cummins’ availability for the international matches.
As Australia’s Test and ODI captain, his presence on that tour would be crucial. While the impact on his T20I involvement remains to be seen, Cummins recently captained the Sunrisers Hyderabad in the IPL 2024 final, so a complete T20I absence seems unlikely.
MLC boasts star-studded roster
Cummins joins a growing list of high-profile cricketers signing with MLC franchises. The San Francisco Unicorns also secured the services of Australian batsman Jake Fraser-McGurk.
Another MLC team, the Washington Freedom, boasts a strong Australian contingent with Glenn Maxwell, Travis Head, and the legendary Steven Smith joining their ranks. This influx of international talent further strengthens the MLC’s position as a rising force in global cricket.
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MLC Gains Official Recognition from ICC
The MLC’s second season brings an exciting development: List A status. This prestigious designation, previously only held by the UAE’s ILT20 among Associate-run franchise competitions, recognizes the MLC as an official T20 league. This means statistics recorded during MLC matches will now count towards official T20 player records.
With Pat Cummins leading the charge, the MLC is poised for a spectacular season, attracting top international talent and gaining official recognition. This innovative league is undoubtedly changing the landscape of T20 cricket across the globe.
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