Mumbai Indians join CSK & DC, bag New York franchise in Major League Cricket

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In a historic move, the Reliance Industries Limited-owned Mumbai Indians on Sunday announced the acquisition of the New York franchise in the upcoming Major League Cricket (MLC), thereby joining the US cricket revolution alongside Delhi Capitals and Chennai Super Kings. This means Mumbai now owns a cricket franchise in three different continents, four different countries, and five different leagues.

"The team will participate in the inaugural edition of Major League Cricket (MLC) subject to completion of customary due diligence; negotiation, and execution of definitive binding agreements, and receipt of required corporate, regulatory and third-party approvals and compliances," stated an official, according to a press release issued by the franchise.

As it stands, MI New York will be the fifth cricket franchise in the family, joining Mumbai Indians (IPL), MI Cape Town (SA20), MI Emirates (ILT20), and Mumbai Indians Women (WPL). Major League Cricket will be the first professional Twenty20 cricket league in the United States. The inaugural season of Major League Cricket will kick off in the summer of 2023.

The team is set to participate in the inaugural edition of Major League Cricket (MLC), subject to completion of customary due diligence; negotiation, and execution of definitive binding agreements, and receipt of required corporate, regulatory and third-party approvals and compliances, Mumbai Indians informed further.

Mrs. Nita. M. Ambani, Director of Reliance Industries, was ecstatic to welcome another member in the ‘growing MI family'. "I am thrilled to welcome our New York franchise to the growing MI Family! With our entry into the first cricket league in the US, I hope we are able to establish Mumbai Indians as a global brand of fearless and entertaining cricket! This is another new beginning for MI and I look forward to the exciting journey ahead," she said.

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It is no secret that Mumbai Indians have emerged as the most consistent cricket franchise over the past 16 years, maintaining its top position with seven titles, which includes a record 5 trophies in IPL and two Champions League T20 titles. They are one of the most followed global cricket brands with close to 50 mn digital fans spread across the world, Since 2009, Mumbai Indians have grown by 99% brand value and have been the preferred partner for brands across the globe looking to build and tell their stories to the world.