A historic win signals cricket’s growing footprint in U.S. sports culture
In a breakthrough for professional cricket in the United States, the Washington Freedom clinched the inaugural Major League Cricket (MLC) championship on Sunday, July 14, in front of a sold-out crowd at Atlanta’s Grand Prairie Stadium. The victory marks a pivotal chapter for the sport, once considered niche in the American athletic landscape.
A Season of Firsts for Cricket in America
The 2025 MLC season, which kicked off on June 12, featured six franchise teams representing major U.S. cities. These included the Los Angeles Knight Riders, Texas Super Kings, San Francisco Unicorns, and the victorious Washington Freedom. The teams competed in a double round-robin format, leading up to an intense playoff series and the final.
Washington Freedom, captained by international cricket veteran Moises Henriques, dominated throughout the season with standout performances from South African fast bowler Anrich Nortje and Australian batsman Travis Head. Their final match victory over the Texas Super Kings showcased a blend of world-class talent and strategic depth, with Freedom chasing down a competitive 185-run target in the final over.
Cricket’s Rising Popularity in the U.S.
This milestone victory arrives during a global resurgence of the T20 format, and MLC’s debut success reflects how rapidly cricket is gaining traction among U.S. fans. The league has attracted backing from high-profile investors, including tech entrepreneurs and sports franchise owners, and has drawn viewers from both immigrant communities and new local fans.
With high production values, live broadcasts across Willow TV and streaming platforms like Sling and ESPN+, and collaborations with international cricket boards, MLC has positioned itself as a premier summer sporting event. Sunday’s final alone saw a peak audience exceeding 1.5 million global viewers, according to internal league estimates.
MLC’s success may also influence cricket’s inclusion in the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, a decision still pending with the International Olympic Committee.
Looking Ahead
Washington Freedom’s win not only earns them the league’s first championship trophy but also sets a benchmark for future seasons. League officials confirmed that preparations for MLC 2026 are already underway, with plans to expand to eight teams and introduce a women’s edition of the tournament.
As cricket cements its place in the American sports calendar, the Washington Freedom’s title win represents more than just a trophy—it symbolizes a new era for cricket in the U.S.
