File image of former Australian cricket group captain Ricky Ponting
| Photo Credit: Getty Images
Former Australia captain Ricky Ponting has been appointed head coach of Washington Freedom forward of the second season of Major League Cricket in the United States, the MLC group mentioned.
Ponting has signed a two-year deal and takes over from compatriot Greg Shipperd, who led Washington to a third-place end in the inaugural season of the six-team T20 match.
MLC is bidding to carve out a spot for cricket in a profitable sports activities market at the moment dominated by baseball, basketball and American soccer.
“Cricket is really on the rise in the U.S. and I’m looking forward to being involved in Major League Cricket,” Ponting, who additionally coaches Delhi Capitals in the Indian Premier League, mentioned in a group assertion on Tuesday.
“I’ve been impressed by everyone involved at Washington Freedom and, while it’s a bit surreal to be replacing my mate Greg Shipperd, there’s probably no one better to set up a successful franchise.”
Ponting’s involvement enhances the league’s attraction, mentioned Washington proprietor Sanjay Govil.
“His understanding of our vision — to enhance the sport’s profile in the U.S. and to develop local talent — resonates with our mission,” he added.
“Ricky’s appointment is a pivotal step in our quest to not just participate in the MLC but to redefine it, offering unparalleled cricket experiences to our fans and creating a legacy of excellence in American cricket.”
Four IPL franchises both personal groups in MLC or have invested in the league.
The Kolkata Knight Riders personal the Los Angeles franchise, whereas Mumbai Indians have purchased MI New York.
Chennai Super Kings partnered with an area investor to accumulate the Texas franchise, whereas Delhi Capitals co-owner GMR Group has purchased a stake in Seattle Orcas.
The United States is co-hosting this 12 months’s T20 World Cup together with West Indies.