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Former England seamstress Liam Plunkett believes Major League Cricket (MLC) could become the second most popular T20 franchise after the Indian Premier League (IPL). The Yorkshire Bowler stated that America takes the MLC very seriously.
The MLC’s inaugural season began on July 14, 2023, with the Texas Super Kings teaming with the Los Angeles Knight Riders. The former emerged comfortably victorious, winning by 69 runs after scoring 181 in 20 overs.
Speaking to BBC Sport, Plunkett, who will represent the San Francisco Unicorns, opined that the MLC has huge potential and there is no bigger market than America for the promotion of cricket. He said:
“He could be right there behind the IPL. Obviously it’s going to be tough to get past the IPL but the MLC is taken very seriously and America is the biggest place in the world for the sport. Let’s see where that roof is. Nobody knows and that’s the exciting part, it’s Unknown. There is a huge potential.”
he added:
“When the Americans get excited about something, they go above and beyond. Like the Indians, they get really excited. With these guys showing up, it shows there’s strong excitement. They want to be here because if it gets fired, it could be huge.”
The IPL is arguably the most watched T20 franchise tournament in the world and its viewership has been increasing by leaps and bounds with each passing year.
“It’s Harder” – Liam Plunkett on the State vs. Privilege Debate
Reflecting on the debate between country and franchise, Plunkett, who last played for England during the 2019 World Cup, suggested it depends on player priority. The 38-year-old said:
“It’s more complicated depending on the state of the contract. If you feel you’re not getting paid worth playing for England and there comes up competition for twice your contract, it can be conflicting. At the end of the day, you’re playing cricket for the love of it, but it’s like prize money in boxing.” You play because you love it, but also because it pays the bills.”
The San Francisco Unicorns will take on the Mumbai Indians New York at Grand Prairie Stadium in Texas.
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