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New Zealand Cricket (NZC), in a landmark move that could reshape cricket’s global footprint, has announced the launch of its own franchise in the United States’ Major League Cricket (MLC), set to debut in the 2027 season.
The development follows an agreement between NZC and US-based True North Sports Ventures (TNS), a key player in promoting the sport across North America.
The deal will see NZC offering high-performance and operational support, including coaching, management, and support staff, while integrating the new franchise into New Zealand’s domestic high-performance structure.
NZC chief executive Scott Weenink termed the partnership a strategic leap forward, positioning New Zealand at the heart of the global evolution of cricket while tapping into the lucrative US sports market.
“This agreement marks a unique and exciting milestone for NZC,” said Weenink. “As franchise cricket grows globally, NZC needs to adapt to seize strategic opportunities that ensure the sustainability of our cricket network.”
He emphasised that the collaboration will not only diversify NZC’s revenue streams and expand its international brand presence but also open fresh pathways for talent development and retention, both for players and coaches.
True North Sports Ventures, too, sounded upbeat about the venture.
“The potential for cricket in North America is immense,” a TNS statement read. “We look forward to working with NZC to deliver on both our ambitions and theirs, including broader strategic and corporate opportunities globally.”
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