Ahead of its much-awaited second season starting on July 5, Cognizant Major League Cricket (MLC) has been granted official List A status by the International Cricket Council (ICC).
This significant development marks another important milestone in the growth and status of Cognizant Major League Cricket, and more broadly, cricket in the U.S. According to a statement from the MLC, it recognises Cognizant Major League Cricket as an official T20 league and the first world-class domestic tournament in the United States.
Read: Major League Cricket tickets go on sale for 2024 season (May 15, 2024)
From now on, every century, half-century, five-for, run-out, win, defeat and championship will be recorded as an official career statistic in the internationally recognised format of the game, it noted.
The announcement also states that this will give local U.S. players and future stars an opportunity to gain international recognition and help the MLC develop domestic talent.
Read: Cognizant becomes title partner of Major League Cricket (March 15, 2024)
The List A status has been awarded following a successful inaugural season of the MLC and underlines the club's unwavering commitment to delivering the best cricket in the country.
In addition to official List A status, MLC CEO Vijay Srinivasan recently announced a goal of expanding from a 19-game season in 2023 to a 34-game season by 2025.
“Last year saw the inaugural season of Major League Cricket spread cricket fever across the United States and now we are building on the exciting momentum ahead of the highly-anticipated ICC T20 World Cup and MLC Season 2,” he said.
“With an unforgettable summer of cricket just around the corner, we are ready to capture the hearts of sports fans across the US with thrilling, adrenaline-fueled matches in what will be the most exciting T20 tournament in the world.”
With tickets for the inaugural season having sold out, MLC is urging fans to purchase their tickets early to ensure they don't miss any games this season. In addition to the world-class competition, fans will have multiple ticket options, with general admission tickets starting at $30 per person.
The excitement this season will extend off the pitch as well, with entertainment, fireworks, giveaways, player autograph sessions and meet-and-greets, merchandise giveaways, food trucks and tastings planned throughout the tournament, according to the release.
Tickets for all matches, including the four playoff matches, are available to purchase online at tickets.majorleaguecricket.com.
