At 37, Warner remains a dynamic force in the shortest format of the game. His move to MLC marks a significant step for both the player and the growing American cricket league
Australian cricket veteran David Warner is set to make his debut in Major League Cricket (MLC), having signed with the Seattle Orcas for the league’s third season, scheduled from June 12 to July 13 in the United States.
At 37, Warner remains a dynamic force in the shortest format of the game. His move to MLC marks a significant step for both the player and the growing American cricket league. Launched in 2023, MLC has quickly gained momentum, attracting big international names and expanding cricket’s footprint in the U.S.
Warner’s signing is expected to bring a wave of excitement for Seattle Orcas fans and the league at large. Known for his explosive batting and aggressive intent, the left-handed opener has been a marquee figure in global T20 cricket. Across 401 T20 appearances, Warner has amassed 12,956 runs at an impressive strike rate of 140.27. His ability to dominate bowling attacks at the top of the order has made him a sought-after name in franchise cricket for over a decade.
Despite his glittering resume, Warner went unsold at the IPL 2025 auction—a surprising twist, considering he ranks fourth on the all-time IPL run-scorers list with 6,565 runs. However, the setback hasn’t deterred the Australian star, who continues to prove his form and fitness across various leagues.
Warner is currently leading the Karachi Kings in the Pakistan Super League and recently played a pivotal role in guiding the Sydney Thunder to the Big Bash League (BBL) final earlier this year. He scored 405 runs in 12 innings during the BBL 2024 season. Moreover, he was part of the victorious Dubai Capitals squad in the ILT20 held in February, adding yet another trophy to his already illustrious career.
Seattle Orcas, who finished at the bottom of the MLC 2024 standings with just one win from seven matches, will be hoping that Warner’s inclusion provides the spark they need for a turnaround. In contrast, the franchise had a dream run during the league’s inaugural season in 2023, topping the table before faltering in the playoffs.
Warner’s presence will not only strengthen the Orcas’ batting lineup but also bring leadership and international experience to a squad eager to bounce back. His wealth of knowledge and ability to adapt to different conditions could prove invaluable in the Orcas’ bid to reclaim their spot among the league’s elite.
Another positive for Warner is the scheduling of MLC 2025, which does not clash with The Hundred in England this time around. As a result, Warner will also feature for London Spirit in the 100-ball tournament later this year, making 2025 a busy and exciting year for the Aussie veteran.
For Warner, this is not just another signing—it’s the beginning of a new chapter in a market where cricket is still finding its footing. For MLC and the Seattle Orcas, it’s a golden opportunity to leverage the star power of one of the modern game’s greatest T20 icons.
