A Surprise Call Changes the Game
On the eve of the highly anticipated India-Pakistan match in October 2023, Dhiraj Malhotra, then serving as the tournament director for the 2023 World Cup, was approached with a unique opportunity. #MajorLeagueCricket #MLC #UnitedStates
Sanjay Govil, the owner of Washington Freedom, reached out with an offer that Malhotra couldn't refuse to helm his burgeoning Major League Cricket MLC franchise as CEO.
The Malhotra Impact: A Transformational Force in Cricket
Malhotra's name is synonymous with significant milestones in the cricket domain and the broader Indian sports industry. His impressive record includes managing the historic 2004 India-Pakistan series and the inaugural WT20 in 2007, as well as serving as the Tournament Director of the IPL's first edition. He later ascended to the roles of CEO of Delhi Capitals and GM at BCCI.
MLC: The New Frontier in American Cricket
Malhotra sees MLC as a potential game-changer. He believes that the combined business acumen and legacy of the franchise owners can help create something substantial in the realm of US cricket.
Drawing on his two-decade-long experience in the sports industry and his background as an army man and Shaurya Chakra recipient, Malhotra is eager to rise to this new challenge.
The Vision: Community Building Through Cricket
Malhotra's mission extends beyond merely establishing a successful franchise - he aims to foster a cricket community in the DC area. This endeavor, he acknowledges, will take time and effort but is nevertheless achievable. Plans include constructing a home stadium that would contribute significantly to the city's sports legacy.
A Strategy Rooted in Experience
Malhotra, known for setting up the Indian Kabaddi League and working with the Indian Super League and Indian Hockey League, aims to replicate his success in the US.
Despite the challenges, including limited infrastructure and nascent cricket ecosystems, he is confident that his experience with emerging leagues will steer him towards achieving cricket's American dream.
A Year-Round Engagement
The strategy for the Washington Freedom includes becoming a household name by engaging with the community year-round, through cultural and entertainment events, cricket academies, and community outreach programs. "We aim to be relevant 12 months a year," Malhotra says, indicating the franchise's commitment to sustainable growth and development.
Picture credit: CC BY 2.0 , via Wikipedia
