New Zealand Cricket partners with Major League Cricket franchise

As franchise-based T20 leagues continue to rise in popularity across the globe, New Zealand Cricket (NZC) has announced its entry into the trend with a landmark strategic partnership. NZC has teamed up with US-based sports investment firm True North Sports Ventures (TNS) to launch a new franchise T20 league in New Zealand, set to debut in 2027.

This upcoming league will operate as part of the Major League Cricket (MLC) ecosystem in the United States. MLC currently features six franchises and is eyeing expansion to eight teams in the near future, with a long-term goal of reaching ten by 2031. The New Zealand league will serve as an international extension of MLC, featuring multiple overseas players and top-tier talent.

As part of the partnership, NZC will provide expertise in coaching, player development, and team management, creating new pathways for local New Zealand talent to shine on a global stage. The initiative is expected to boost both the exposure and competitiveness of domestic players, while also enhancing NZC’s global footprint.

NZC Chief Executive Scott Weenink expressed enthusiasm about the move:
"With the rise in popularity of franchise leagues around the world, we recognize the need to be part of this transformation. This partnership not only offers financial opportunities but also the potential to grow our brand and expand our fan base."

This marks the first time an international cricket board has entered into a direct strategic partnership with a professional franchise league, signaling what could be a major shift in the future of global cricket governance and commercialization.