Google, WhatsApp, YouTube and Adobe Execs Back Major League Cricket

A new wave of strategic investment has arrived in U.S. cricket, as a group of high-profile investors acquires a significant stake in Major League Cricket (MLC) with ambitions to fast-track the sport’s rise in one of the world’s most underdeveloped but potentially lucrative cricket markets. The move marks another step in establishing cricket’s permanent footprint in the U.S. sporting ecosystem.

The investor group comprises of Google, WhatsApp, YouTube and Adobe moguls among others, with capital being deployed to support the continued development of the league, its franchises and cricket-specific infrastructure nationwide. While financial details remain confidential, the deal reflects growing confidence in the commercial viability of the sport in the United States, particularly off the back of the 2024 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, which the U.S. co-hosted alongside the West Indies.

Founded in 2023, MLC has already made waves with high-calibre international signings, broadcast partnerships and a well-received debut season. The new investment will help scale up operations, bolster grassroots development and expand stadium capabilities in key regions, including Texas, California and North Carolina. League officials have confirmed that funds will be allocated toward player development pathways, media outreach and long-term brand building.

The timing is significant. Cricket is already one of the fastest-growing participation sports in the U.S., fuelled by immigrant communities and younger fans engaging with global formats like the IPL, The Hundred and T20 World Cups. MLC offers a localised version of that experience, with star players from India, Australia, the Caribbean and South Africa lining up alongside emerging U.S. talent.

The new investors are expected to bring not only capital but also expertise in fan engagement, digital content strategy and event-day innovation. Their experience will be critical in bridging cricket’s rich global heritage with the expectations of modern American sports consumers.

The deal also aligns with broader macro trends in U.S. sport, where international leagues and formats, from F1 to rugby to pickleball, are aggressively targeting the U.S. market as a growth engine. Cricket, backed by deep-pocketed investors and a World Cup on the horizon, is now joining that movement with greater clarity and confidence.