New Zealand Cricket (NZC) has formed a strategic partnership with US-based True North Sports Ventures (TNS) to co-own a new Major League Cricket (MLC) franchise, set to debut in 2027. The move marks NZC’s bold entry into the North American cricket market, with ambitions of diversifying revenue and strengthening its global footprint.
Under the terms of the agreement, TNS will oversee operations of the franchise, one of two expansion teams granted to MLC co-founders Sameer Mehta and Vijay Srinivasan. The second team may launch in 2031, with NZC retaining rights to collaborate on future cricket ventures in the US and beyond.
Toronto and Atlanta in contention as franchise location
TNS is currently exploring multiple markets for the team’s home base, including Toronto and Atlanta. The franchise is expected to tap into growing North American cricket interest following the 2024 T20 World Cup and ahead of cricket’s return to the Olympics in Los Angeles 2028.
NZC’s strategic pivot to overseas franchise investment
Scott Weenink, CEO of NZC, emphasized that this deal is a milestone in the organization’s shift from traditional revenue models to international investments. “This agreement marks a unique and exciting milestone for NZC,” Weenink said. “Franchise cricket is growing, and we need to evolve to remain financially sustainable.”
NZC currently lacks a fully commercial domestic T20 league. The Super Smash, owned by NZC, serves primarily as a development tournament. With pressure mounting on broadcast revenues and ICC distributions, Weenink indicated that NZC is exploring multiple models, including potential privatization of Super Smash and investment in international franchises.
Minority stake, major operational involvement
While NZC will be a minority shareholder in the TNS-led franchise, its operational role will be significant. The board will provide high-performance services, coaching, and support staff, with annual revenues from this expected to reach seven figures.
“We anticipate both capital growth and dividend income from this partnership,” said Weenink, highlighting the dual financial and strategic benefits.
Positioning NZC in the US and Indian markets
This partnership is not just about financial return—it’s about global brand expansion. Weenink noted a deliberate push to grow NZC’s presence in India and the US. “India remains untapped in many ways for us, and we see the US as a massive growth opportunity,” he said.
He added that NZC aims to leverage the growing popularity of MLC, along with key sporting events like the Olympics in LA, to build deeper connections with fans and stakeholders in both markets.
MLC founders: “NZC is the perfect fit”
Speaking on behalf of TNS, MLC co-founder Sameer Mehta praised NZC’s values and resilience. “TNS is delighted to partner with NZC, an organisation admired for its sustained success despite limited resources,” he said.
Mehta added, “With NZC’s cricketing expertise, our new franchise will strengthen MLC’s global standing and help unlock the sport’s full potential in North America.”
The move positions NZC at the heart of cricket’s evolving global landscape, signaling a new era for international board-level partnerships.
Name of Author: Cricexec Staff
