Ricky Ponting appointed head coach of Washington Freedom

All-time cricketing great Ricky Ponting has been appointed as the new head coach of Washington Freedom, owned by Indian American entrepreneur Sanjay Govil, ahead of the second season of Major League Cricket (MLC) in the United States.

Washington Freedom based in the American capital, is one of the six teams who competed in MLC’s historic inaugural season. All

Six will feature again in the second season set to open on July 4.

READ: New sports league and cricket team launched in Dallas (September 7, 2023)

Former Australian cricketer Ponting widely regarded as one of world’s greatest ever players and is now one of the most sought-after off-field properties on the global T20 circuit.

He currently coaches the Indian Premier League’s Delhi Capitals and has previously filled roles in cricket’s short form with the Mumbai Indians and the Australian Men’s team.

In a full-circle moment, Ponting will replace his longtime mentor and former coach, Greg Shipperd, at the Washington DC based MLC franchise, on a two-year deal, according to a press release.

READ: If inaugural season is an indication, Major League Cricket is here to stay (July 31, 2023)

Shipperd has stepped down from the role with the Freedom to focus his attentions on Cricket NSW’s Blues and the Sydney Sixers in the Australian domestic competitions.

Ponting paid tribute to Shipperd and the work that Cricket NSW had done with Washington Freedom.

“I’m extremely excited to be joining the Washington Freedom in 2024,” Ponting said.“Cricket is really on the rise in the US and I’m looking forward to being involved in Major League Cricket.”

“I’ve been impressed by everyone involved at Washington Freedom and, while it’s a bit surreal to be replacing my mate Greg Shipperd, there’s probably no one better to set up a successful franchise. I’m ready to build on his work as we look towards the coming season.”

Washington Freedom owner Sanjay Govil said Ponting’s appointment would continue the positive evolution of Major League Cricket and complement the fledgling league’s ‘mission’.

“Reflecting on the success of MLC’s inaugural season and the aspiration to elevate cricket in the USA, we are poised to build upon the foundations laid last year,” Govil said.

“Our journey saw us capture the imagination of the cricket-passionate local community, showcasing the burgeoning talent within the US and igniting a passion for the sport. As we look to the future, it’s clear that our ambitions require a figure of unmatched stature and expertise.

“It is with immense pride and anticipation that we welcome Ricky Ponting as our head coach. Ricky’s legendary status, characterized by his leadership, winning mindset, and commitment to nurturing talent, aligns perfectly with our goals.

“His understanding of our vision—to enhance the sport’s profile in the US and to develop local talent—resonates with our mission,” he said. “Ricky’s appointment is a pivotal step in our quest to not just participate in the MLC but to redefine it, offering unparalleled cricket experiences to our fans and creating a legacy of excellence in American cricket.”

READ: Sanjay Govil brings professional cricket to Washington (March 20, 2023)

MLC’s debut season in 2023 transformed the landscape of American cricket, bringing world class domestic T20 action to the United States for the first time with a majority of the matches played in front of sold-out crowds in Texas and North Carolina.

Dozens of the world’s best cricketers competed alongside the nation’s top domestic talent across 19 matches, with MI New York claiming the inaugural crown, defeating the Seattle Orcas in the championship final.

Read: Indian American entrepreneur Sanjay Govil wants to grow cricket in America (March 30, 2016)

Read: Satya Nadella forms Seattle’s new professional cricket team (March 17, 2023)