Major League Cricket 2023

Ricky Ponting in talks to coach Washington Freedom in Major League Cricket

Feb 1, 2024 2:24 pm

Former legendary Australian cricketer Ricky Ponting is in talks to coach the Washington Freedom in the upcoming Major League Cricket (MLC) tournament. Ponting, who is one of the most successful captains in cricket history, has confirmed that he has been approached by the franchise and is in discussions about the role.

“There have been some discussions. I haven’t committed to anything just yet but I’ve had some initial chats. The time of the year fits in for me. I’ve got a few weeks now before the IPL which rolls into the T20 World Cup and the MLC is immediately after the World Cup,” Ponting said whilst speaking to SEN 1170.

Ponting has a wealth of experience in coaching, having served as the head coach of the Delhi Capitals in the Indian Premier League (IPL) for the past few seasons. He has also been around the Australian side during the time when Justin Langer was in charge. It remains to be seen whether Ponting will take up the coaching role with the Washington Freedom. It is understood that any apprehension that he has stems from the fact that he would have to spend more time away from his family in the case that he accepts the role.

“It’s potentially another big year of time away if I want it. There’s just some stuff that I have to work through. I like the coaching side of things and I’ve enjoyed my time at the IPL in the past six to seven years,” he said.

“The game is in my blood”

Ponting however declared that the game is a part of his DNA, highlighting his enduring passion for it. “I’ve been able to help around the Australian team on a couple of tours when Justin Langer was coach. The game is in my blood and I love working with the best players in the world and trying to find a way to make them a bit better. All in the hope that we can win some games along the way,” he said.

The MLC season is scheduled to start in July 2024. The tournament, like in 2023, will feature a double round-robin format, followed by playoffs and a final.