New Delhi [India], February 7 : Former Australia skipper Ricky Ponting has been appointed as the head coach of Washington Freedom ahead of the second season of the Major League Cricket (MLC).
The franchise took to X to announce Ponting as the head coach and wrote, “Get ready for a cricket revolution! With @RickyPonting leading, Washington Freedom is set to transform American cricket. As we dive into MLC Season 2, expect groundbreaking plays. Let the games begin.”
Get ready for a cricket revolution!
With @RickyPonting leading, Washington Freedom is set to transform American cricket.
As we dive into MLC Season 2, expect groundbreaking plays.
Let the games begin! #SweetFreedom ⚪ #MLC #RickyPonting #WashingtonFreedom pic.twitter.com/RG6RNHQf4U
– Washington Freedom (@WSHFreedom) February 6, 2024
The 49-year-old will fill in the role that was left vacant by Sydney Sixers coach Greg Shipperd. Under Ponting’s longtime mentor, Freedom finished third in the inaugural season of the MLC.
Ponting, as he embarks on a new cricketing journey in the US, said in a statement: “I’m extremely excited to be joining the Washington Freedom in 2024. 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.”