The fourth edition of the Major League Cricket (MLC 2026) is set to be slated to be held from June 18 to July 18 in 2026 calendar year.
Like the previous edition, the competition will feature 34 games played between six teams. But even with the MLC 2026 dates now out, there is no public confirmation from USA Cricket (USAC) on whether it has revoked the termination of its contract with American Cricket Enterprises (ACE), the owners of the league.
The confusion has left USA players concerned, as recently stated by Corey Anderson, who is the operational director of USA cricketers’ Association, which is not recognised by USAC.
Despite the growing popularity of the MLC, the contractual dispute between USAC and ACE still grabs sifnificant attention. USAC had previously terminated its agreement with ACE and to date there has been no public confirmaton of whether that the decision has been reversed.
Also Read: MLC Winners List (2023 to 2025) – Major League Cricket
Corey Anderson, former New Zealand cricketer and now operational director of the USA cricketers’ Association, a body not normally recognised by USAC, recently voiced his concerns. He mentioned how the ongoing uncertainty threatens player security and long term planning, especially with the league becoming a crucial platform for the local cricketers.
“Season 3 showed that demand for top-tier cricket in the USA is real and accelerating,” Johnny Grave, MLC chief executive, said in a statement. “MLC is winning new fans, followers and viewers throughout the USA and around the world. We’re delivering on our promise to grow the game across the USA and build relations with new and existing commercial partners.”
According to MLC, ACE is now targeting ten international standard venues by 2030 with investments upwards of US$ 150 million committed.
The six teams participating in the event are Los Angeles Knight Riders, MI New York, San Francisco Unicorns, Seattle Orcas, Texas Super Kings and Washington Freedom. The MLC is also planning to add two more teams by the 2027 season, with a move to Canada also being explored.
The 2025 edition was won by MI New York, their second title in three seasons, defeating Washington Freedom by five runs in the final.
