MiLC 2026 Set to Begin August 7 Following Record-Breaking Fan Engagement in 2025
GRAND PRAIRIE, TX – American Cricket Enterprises (ACE) today announced that the Minor League Cricket (MiLC) 2026 season will begin on August 7, following confirmation of a Domestic Sanction from the International Cricket Council (ICC). 26 returning teams from across the United States will compete in a 130 game regular season, followed by a week-long Super12s Playoff tournament, culminating with the MiLC Final at Grand Prairie in October to determine the national champion.
The 2025 season marked a record-breaking year for the league, with digital and social engagement reaching new heights. Live viewership across MiLC’s digital platforms surged by 258% year-over-year, while total watch time increased 269%, reflecting not only a growing audience but deeper fan engagement. On social media, MiLC’s presence expanded dramatically, with impressions up 266% and engagements rising 447% compared to the 2024 season — clear indicators of cricket’s accelerating momentum in the U.S.
“As Minor League Cricket enters its sixth year, it continues to play a pivotal role in the U.S. cricket ecosystem,” said Johnny Grave, ACE CEO. “Year after year, the league has delivered growth, competitive integrity, and a genuine pathway for domestic players nationwide. ACE and our Minor League ownership group are delighted to confirm the dates for 2026 season and a record 161 game season. MiLC remains the engine driving American cricket forward, and our commitment to its success has never been stronger.”
MiLC continues to bring elite-level cricket to players and fans in communities across the country, showcasing top domestic and international talent, with ACE and the Minor League ownership group investing over US$20M in the tournament to date. The 2025 season featured U.S. national team captain Monank Patel, along with stars such as T20 World Cup break-out stars Shadley Van Schalkwyk, Shubham Ranjane and Sanjay Krishnamurthi. Former Bangladesh Captain, Shakib Al Hasan and former West Indies International Jahmar Hamilton led the Atlanta Fire to a thrilling five-wicket victory over the Chicago Kingsmen in the 2025 Final, held at Church Street Park in Morrisville, NC.
Since 2019, American Cricket Enterprises (ACE), has provided sustained capital investment to grow the sport of cricket in the USA. At the end of 2025, ACE’s cumulative capital contribution to American cricket has surpassed US$150 million. Over the next few years, ACE, Major League Cricket (MLC) & MiLC anticipate investing at least that amount again, focused on venue development and high-performance infrastructure, as teams ramp up projects nationwide, with a target of 10 international cricket grounds across the country by 2030.
