Major League Cricket Launches 2025 Season Across Oakland, Texas, Florida

Major League Cricket (MLC) has launched its 2025 season with a historic expansion to the West Coast, hosting its first top-tier cricket matches at Oakland-Alameda County Coliseum. The stadium, previously home to the Oakland Athletics and Raiders, has been modified with drop-in pitches from New York and will host nine matches, including games for the San Francisco Unicorns, who finished second last season and may make Oakland their permanent home. This move is seen as a significant step in growing cricket in the United States, with MLC CEO Johnny Grave emphasizing the league's commitment to expanding the sport, and local officials highlighting the economic and community benefits, including an estimated $3 million direct impact for Oakland. The season opener features a rematch between the Unicorns and Washington Freedom, continuing the rivalry from last year's final. The league's expansion and growing fanbase, especially among the South Asian community, precede cricket’s inclusion in the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, marking a milestone in the sport’s US presence. Public transportation adjustments, like special BART trains, are also supporting fan access to the games, reflecting the sport's rising popularity in the region.