MLC 2026: Ashwin makes history as six teams gear up for fourth season

Major League Cricket enters its fourth season in 2026 with the competition firmly established as the flagship T20 tournament in the United States. What began in 2023 as an ambitious project has evolved into a thriving league attracting some of the biggest names in world cricket, playing a pivotal role in expanding the game's reach across North America.

Once again, six teams will chase the title. Defending champions MI New York are aiming to add a third crown to their cabinet, while last year's runners-up Washington Freedom will be seeking redemption after narrowly missing out in the final. Texas Super Kings and San Francisco Unicorns remain perennial contenders, while Seattle Orcas and Los Angeles Knight Riders will be eager to break new ground and challenge for a maiden championship.

Ashwin makes history with the Unicorns

MLC 2026 also marks the arrival of former India spinner R Ashwin, who has joined the San Francisco Unicorns and becomes the first retired India international to feature in the league. He joins a star-studded cast that includes Nicholas Pooran, Kieron Pollard, Glenn Maxwell, Steve Smith, Faf du Plessis, Andre Russell, Sunil Narine, Matt Short, Finn Allen and Shimron Hetmyer, among others.

Format and playoffs at the Oakland Coliseum

Each team will play 10 league matches in a double round-robin format, with the top four progressing to the playoffs. The postseason and final will be staged at the Oakland Coliseum, which hosted league games for the first time last year and now becomes the centrepiece of the competition.

Across five weeks and 34 matches, fans can expect blockbuster contests, emerging stars and world-class performances. With new venues, bigger names and a growing global audience, MLC 2026 is poised to deliver its most exciting and impactful season yet.