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Australian cricket legend David Warner has embarked on a thrilling new journey, signing with the Seattle Orcas for the 2025 season of Major League Cricket (MLC). The explosive opener, who retired from international cricket in 2023, will headline the USA-based T20 league’s third edition starting June 12—marking his debut in a tournament rapidly gaining global traction. For Warner, this move adds another chapter to a globetrotting career spanning nine T20 leagues, from the IPL to the BBL.
David Warner’s MLC Mission
At 38, Warner remains a T20 powerhouse. With 12,956 runs in 401 matches (strike rate: 140.27), his résumé is unmatched. Yet, his MLC signing comes after a surprising IPL 2025 auction snub, ending a 16-year streak in the league where he ranks fourth all-time in runs (6,565). Undeterred, Warner dominated Australia’s Big Bash League (BBL) this winter, captaining Sydney Thunder to the final while amassing 405 runs (second-highest in the tournament).
The Seattle Orcas, who finished last in MLC 2024 with just one win, see Warner as the catalyst for revival. Seattle’s GM, Soma Somasegar, called the signing “a transformative moment” for the franchise, which topped the 2023 regular season before falling to MI New York in the final. David Warner’s pedigree—he recently led Dubai Capitals to the ILT20 title—brings clutch experience to a team craving leadership.
Why Seattle Orcas? Warner’s expanding T20 universe
Warner’s MLC leap isn’t just about runs; it’s about legacy. The league’s growth aligns with his post-retirement vision to popularize cricket in non-traditional markets. “The U.S. is the next frontier,” Warner said in a recent PSL interview. “I want to help build something special here.”
His arrival also fills a strategic gap for Seattle. The Seattle Orcas’ batting faltered in 2024, averaging just 145 runs per game. Warner’s aggressive starts and tactical acumen (he’s captained sides in the IPL, BBL, and PSL) could stabilize their top order while mentoring young talents like Shehan Jayasuriya.
MLC 2025: A clash-free calendar boost
MLC’s 2025 window (June 12–July 13) avoids overlaps with The Hundred, where David Warner will also feature for London Spirit. This scheduling savvy ensures marquee players like Warner can maximize their visibility without burnout—a win for leagues and fans alike.
The bigger picture
Warner’s signing signals MLC’s rising credibility. After luring stars like Kieron Pollard and Trent Boult in previous seasons, adding a drawcard of Warner’s caliber amplifies its appeal. For U.S. cricket, his presence could accelerate grassroots interest ahead of the 2026 T20 World Cup, co-hosted by America.
As David Warner gears up for his Seattle debut, the Seattle Orcas’ faithful are dreaming big. Can the Aussie icon turn last year’s strugglers into contenders? One thing’s certain: the MLC just got a whole lot brighter.
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