NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WKRN) — Cricket is one of the most popular international sports with billions of viewers worldwide. Now, Nashville is going to be a major hub for the unique sport at Music City Premier League returns for its second season.

The MCPL is the first franchise-based cricket league in Nashville. It consists of five teams with nearly 100 players across Middle Tennessee, which is an increase from last season.

The teams include the Brentwood Super Kings, Franklin Legends, Franklin Royal Challengers, Green Hills Titans and the Nashville Star Riders.

According to the league, the growth of the sport in Nashville is only beginning.

"American kids are learning cricket now in many states," Nashville Cricket Association Chairman, Arun Paul, said. "In Nashville, it's going to happen very soon. So I see it spread out across every country from grass roots, which indicates that there is going to be explosive growth."

In addition, players in the league are getting paid, with the winning team earning $12,000.

Similar to baseball, cricket is a bat-and-ball sport with the objective to score more runs. Typically, games last three to four hours and contain more runs and a faster play style than baseball.

"It's a great opportunity to go learn a little bit about the sport to see how it compares in contrast with baseball," said Kumar Kolin of league sponsor Trinetix. "Some may enjoy it better; some may find this to be a little bit more fast-paced with a lot of home runs."

Cricket is making its return to the 2028 Summer Olympics after a 128-year absence. Meanwhile, the MCPL games begin June 1 at Whites Creek High School and are free to attend.

News Source : https://www.wkrn.com/news/local-news/nashville/cricket-league-returns-to-nashville-this-summer/