Ashwin Creates History As First Indian To Join US Major League Cricket

Veteran off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin, 39, has officially joined the San Francisco Unicorns for the upcoming MLC season, which begins on June 19, 2026. Ashwin retired from international cricket in December 2024 and from the IPL in 2025, but his decision to play in the US league reflects both his passion for the game and cricket’s expanding footprint in America.

Historic Signing For MLC
Ashwin’s signing is being hailed as one of the biggest moves in Major League Cricket history. With over 765 international wickets and a reputation as one of India’s greatest match-winners, his presence is expected to elevate the league’s competitiveness and attract significant interest from the Asian diaspora in the US.

Boost For Cricket In America
The San Francisco Unicorns’ acquisition of Ashwin is seen as a strategic step to strengthen their squad and raise the league’s profile. Ashwin himself noted the enthusiastic reception of cricket among the diaspora in Dallas, emphasizing the sport’s potential ahead of its return to the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.

Key Highlights

• Ravichandran Ashwin joins San Francisco Unicorns for MLC 2026
• First Indian international to play in US Major League Cricket
• Tournament begins June 19, 2026, in Texas
• Ashwin retired from international cricket in 2024 and IPL in 2025
• Signing boosts cricket’s visibility in the US ahead of 2028 Olympics

Sources: Mint, NDTV Sports, ESPNcricinfo, ESPN