NCL to showcase meaningful causes with themed nights

Besides world-class cricket, it’s also about “making a difference in the world through sport,” says NCL Chairman Arun Agarwal

The National Cricket League kicks off a 10-day celebration of cricket with its Sixty Strikes Tournament at UT Dallas from Oct 4 to 14 featuring not only world-class players and Coachella style entertainment, but also meaningful themes.

Themed nights will bring purpose, and spotlight causes like domestic violence awareness, veterans’ appreciation, sustainability, and police, fire and healthcare hero recognition, according to a media release.

The NCL, recently approved by the International Cricket Council (ICC), and partnering with Dubai based SEE Holdings on sustainability efforts, led by Commissioner Haroon Lorgat, is positioning itself as a leader in the global cricket community in the US.

Sports Illustrated is an official partner of the NCL, boosting the league’s presence in US sports and bringing its vision of cricket to a broader audience, the release stated.

“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 about making a difference in the world through sport. These themed nights will inspire and connect fans to meaningful causes.’’

“Cricket with a Purpose” themed nights:

Oct 4: Kick Off the National Cricket League in Style at UT Dallas.

Oct 5: Domestic Violence Awareness Night
Every run matters. Making a stand for a safer future, this night is dedicated to raising awareness and supporting survivors of domestic violence.

Oct 6: Community Partner Appreciation Night
Honoring the people and organizations who stand side by side with NCL’s success. From local heroes to key stakeholders, this night celebrates the backbone of the league and their contributions.

Oct 7: Veterans Night

Pays heartfelt tribute to those who have served. Sons of Yankee legends Mickey Mantle and Billy Martin—David Mantle and Billy Martin Jr.—will be signing autographs, with all proceeds benefiting the Special Forces Charitable Trust. Veterans will be honored with performances by Danny Gringo and Raga Boyz, celebrating their bravery and sacrifice.

Oct 8: Healthcare and Public Safety Heroes Night

With UTSW as its official healthcare partner, NCL will honor the memory of Officer Darron Burks, who made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty.

A special performance by Javed Ali will pay tribute to the dedication and service of the everyday heroes—healthcare professionals, first responders, and public safety officers—who keep our communities safe and healthy.

Oct 9: 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.

Oct 10: UT Dallas Alumni Night
Comet pride takes over as the NCL honors UT Dallas alumni. Featuring a performance by Tanmay Chaturvedi, it’s a night of school spirit and cricket.

Oct 12-14: 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 US is growing at a fast pace, with the NCL at the forefront, according to the release.

(This post was originally published by the American Bazaar.)