National Cricket League USA launches “Cricket for Good”: Billions can watch a purpose-driven tournament.
Cricket for a Better Tomorrow: The National Cricket League USA (NCL) Unites Fans with Compassion and Impact at the University of Texas, Dallas (UT Dallas).
DALLAS, Texas, October 5, 2024 — The National Cricket League (NCL) is poised to make a significant global impact through its highly anticipated Sixty Strikes Tournament, scheduled to take place at UT Dallas (University of Texas, Dallas) from October 4 to October 14. This 10-day cricket extravaganza will not only feature elite players and top-notch entertainment but will also spotlight meaningful themes that extend beyond the realm of sports. Themed nights will emphasize essential causes, including domestic violence awareness, veterans’ appreciation, sustainability, and the recognition of police, fire, and healthcare heroes.
The NCL is revolutionizing sports with global viewership and six teams nationwide. Recently approved by the ICC, the league is partnering with Dubai-based SEE Holdings on sustainability efforts and is led by Commissioner Haroon Lorgat. It is positioning itself as a leader in the U.S. cricket community.
In a significant highlight, Sports Illustrated is an official partner of the NCL, boosting the league’s presence in U.S. sports and bringing its vision of cricket to a broader audience.
“We’ve created something extraordinary with the National Cricket League,” said Arun Agarwal, Chairman of the NCL. “Not only is it about world-class cricket, but it’s also about making a difference in the world through sport. These themed nights will inspire and connect fans to meaningful causes.”
The themed nights, “Cricket with a Purpose,” are as follows:
- October 4: Kick Off the National Cricket League in Style at UT Dallas.
- October 5: Domestic Violence Awareness Night. Every run matters. This night is dedicated to raising awareness and supporting survivors of domestic violence. Join the NCL in taking a stand for a safer future.
- October 6: Community Partner Appreciation Night
This night honors the individuals and organizations that contribute to NCL’s success. It celebrates the league’s backbone and their invaluable contributions.
- On October 7: “We will be hosting Veterans Night, a special event to pay tribute to those who have served. Join us in meeting David Mantle and Billy Martin Jr., the sons of Yankee legend Mickey Mantle and Billy Martin, who will be signing autographs. All proceeds from the autograph signing will benefit the Special Forces Charitable Trust. The evening will feature performances by Danny Gringo and Raga Boyz, celebrating the bravery and sacrifice of the veterans.”
- October 8: Healthcare and Public Safety Heroes Night
“The National Cricket League, in partnership with UTSW as its official healthcare partner, will honor the memory of Officer Darron Burks, who made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty. Together, we salute the everyday heroes—healthcare professionals, first responders, and public safety officers—who keep our communities safe and healthy. Javed Ali’s exceptional performance will pay tribute to their dedication and service.”
- October 9th: Sustainability Night
The NCL is committed to becoming a carbon-neutral event by 2030. On this night, powered by solar energy, the league will plant a tree for every boundary hit. Wajid Ali will perform as we celebrate the future of green sports.
- October 10: UT Dallas Alumni Night
Comet pride takes over as the NCL honors UT Dallas alumni. Tanmay Chaturvedi will perform at the event, making it a night of school spirit and cricket.
- October 12th-14th: The Playoffs
The stakes are high: win or go home. The top teams will compete for the ultimate prize as the tournament reaches its thrilling finale. Fans will witness the best of cricket under the Texas lights.
The NCL tournament opens with Bollywood superstar Mika Singh and features themed nights, bringing a Coachella-like energy. This season, NCL brings together cricket legends known worldwide—Sunil Gavaskar, Zaheer Abbas, Wasim Akram, Dilip Vengsarkar, Sir Vivian Richards, Venkatesh Prasad, Sanath Jayasuriya, Moin Khan, and Blair Franklin. The cricketing heroes will mentor and coach the next generation of players.
The league will also feature top-tier players from around the world, including Shahid Afridi, Suresh Raina, Dinesh Karthik, Shakib Al Hasan, Robin Uthappa, Tabraiz Shamsi, Chris Lynn, Angelo Mathews, Colin Munro, Sam Billings, Mohammad Nabi, Johnson Charles.
With its partnership with Sports Illustrated and broadcasting through ESPN, SONY Max, SKY, and Fox Sports, the NCL is bringing cricket to over 2.5 billion fans worldwide. As one of the most-watched sports globally, cricket’s footprint in the U.S. is multiplying, with the NCL at the forefront.
The National Cricket League (NCL) USA, with its headquarters in Dallas, is reshaping the landscape of cricket in the United States through its innovative Sixty Strikes format, a fast-paced rendition of the game. Endorsed by the esteemed International Cricket Council (ICC), the NCL positions cricket as a significant contender in American sports.
Meanwhile, cricket icon Sachin Tendulkar joined the National Cricket League (NCL) ownership group in the United States. This strategic move is anticipated to significantly enhance the development and popularity of cricket in the country over the forthcoming years.
“Cricket has represented the most significant journey of my life, and I am honored to align with the National Cricket League during this pivotal period for the sport in the United States,” remarked Tendulkar following the NCL’s announcement of his association with the organization.
Sachin Tendulkar expressed his alignment with the NCL’s vision of establishing a platform for world-class cricket and cultivating a new generation of enthusiasts. He eagerly anticipates contributing to this new endeavor and observing firsthand the development of cricket in the United States.
Source: NCL
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