New Zealand Cricket Plans 2027 MLC Franchise Launch

New Zealand Cricket (NZC) will become the first full International Cricket Council (ICC) member to directly invest in a U.S.-based T20 league by launching a Major League Cricket (MLC) franchise in 2027, as part of MLC’s expansion from six to eight teams. This partnership with True North Sports Ventures (TNSV), whose investors include sports industry heavyweights, is designed to strengthen NZC’s global brand, diversify revenue streams, and provide new talent development pathways. The yet-unnamed franchise will integrate into NZC’s high-performance ecosystem, with NZC supplying coaching and management support. Atlanta and Toronto are being considered as possible home bases, with the final decision expected later this year. NZC also retains an option to invest in an additional MLC franchise, underscoring its long-term commitment to franchise cricket and North American market growth. This move highlights the rising profile of cricket in North America, following the recent T20 World Cup co-hosted by the U.S. and cricket’s scheduled return to the Olympics in 2028.