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Pomona Today
By the People, for the People
Indian Cricket Star Ravichandran Ashwin Joins Major League Cricket
Signing marks first time an Indian national team player will compete in the US-based league.
Mar. 28, 2026 at 5:36pm
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Ravichandran Ashwin, one of India's most celebrated cricketers, has signed with the San Francisco Unicorns for the 2026 season of Major League Cricket (MLC), a professional Twenty20 cricket league in the United States. Ashwin's move represents a significant milestone for the growing sport in America, as he is the first Indian-capped player to join the league.
Why it matters
Ashwin's signing is seen as a game-changer for the MLC and cricket's growth in the US. The league aims to tap into the large South Asian diaspora in the country, and Ashwin's star power and experience are expected to boost the Unicorns' chances of winning their first championship while also attracting more fans to the sport.
The details
The 39-year-old Ashwin brings a wealth of experience to the Unicorns, having represented India in over 100 Tests and 65 T20 Internationals. He was part of India's victorious 2011 World Cup and 2013 Champions Trophy squads. The Unicorns highlighted Ashwin's 'world-class spin bowling and strong tactical acumen' as key assets. Ashwin stated his focus is on helping the franchise win its first championship and delivering 'a spectacular brand of cricket' to Bay Area fans.
- Ashwin signed with the San Francisco Unicorns for the 2026 MLC season.
- Cricket will return to the Olympic program at the 2028 Los Angeles Games after a 128-year absence.
The players
Ravichandran Ashwin
A 39-year-old Indian cricketer who has represented India in over 100 Tests and 65 T20 Internationals, winning the 2011 World Cup and 2013 Champions Trophy with the national team.
San Francisco Unicorns
One of the teams in the Major League Cricket (MLC) league, a professional Twenty20 cricket league in the United States.
What they’re saying
“We are thrilled to welcome Ravichandran Ashwin to the San Francisco Unicorns. His world-class spin bowling and strong tactical acumen will be invaluable assets as we strive to win our first MLC championship.”
— Unicorns Management
“My focus is on helping the Unicorns win their first MLC title and delivering a spectacular brand of cricket to the passionate fans in the Bay Area.”
— Ravichandran Ashwin
What’s next
Cricket's inclusion in the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics is expected to further boost the sport's profile in the US, and the MLC is poised to capitalize on this momentum through expansion and increased investment.
The takeaway
Ravichandran Ashwin's signing with the San Francisco Unicorns represents a significant milestone for the growth of cricket in the United States, as the MLC looks to tap into the large South Asian diaspora and build a sustainable future for the sport in the country.
