MLC 2026: The Exciting Clash of Champions Begins June 18th

The final is scheduled for July 18, 2026. © MLC

Major League Cricket (MLC) has announced that its fourth season will take place from June 18 to July 18, 2026, maintaining the same June-July duration as in 2025. The league will consist of 34 matches featuring six teams, strategically planned to avoid clashes with major global events like The Hundred.

This news arrives amidst ongoing tensions between the MLC’s owners, American Cricket Enterprises (ACE), and USA Cricket (USAC), which recently issued and then withdrew a notice to terminate their 50-year commercial agreement with ACE.

MLC’s decision to announce dates nearly a year ahead follows a successful third season, evidenced by a 53% increase in ticket sales and a 45% rise in social media engagement. The season also marked MLC’s expansion with games held at the Oakland Coliseum.

“Season 3 demonstrated a growing demand for top-tier cricket in the USA,” commented MLC CEO Johnny Grave. “We are focused on expanding our fan base and enhancing accessibility to the game nationwide.”

In addition to competition dates, ACE has emphasized its commitment to infrastructure development, with over $150 million already invested and plans to construct ten international-standard venues by 2030.

A key initiative remains the proposed Olympic cricket venue in Los Angeles, where the Knight Riders, owners of the Los Angeles franchise, are anticipated to be principal tenants. The plans include an 8,000-seat stadium with practice facilities and floodlights, potentially ready for MLC games by 2026 or 2027.

MLC’s clear planning contrasts with the ongoing uncertainties in USAC’s governance. The ICC has given USAC a three-month deadline to conduct overdue board elections and resolve compliance issues due to repeated operation and communication concerns.

The governance issues are expected to be highlighted again this week, as ICC Chair Jay Shah is set to meet separately with ACE officials and USAC Chair Venu Pisike on September 9 and 10 during his visit to the United States.

By releasing its schedule well in advance, MLC aims to offer structure and predictability for players, fans, and commercial partners—something stakeholders have long requested from USAC administrators in the country.