Startup National Cricket League kicks off on October 4 at UT Dallas

The National Cricket League kicks off a 10-day celebration of cricket with the Sixty Strikes Tournament at UT Dallas from October 4 to 14, featuring not only world-class players and Coachella-style entertainment, but also meaningful themes.

Theme nights will bring purpose and highlight causes such as domestic violence awareness, appreciation of veterans, sustainability and recognition of police, fire and healthcare heroes, according to a news release.

Recently endorsed by the International Cricket Council (ICC), and partnered with Dubai-based SEE Holdings on sustainability efforts, led by Commissioner Haroon Lorgat, the NCL is positioning itself as a leader in the global cricket community in the US.

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Sports Illustrate is an official partner of the NCL, expanding the league's presence in American sports and bringing its vision of cricket to a broader audience, the release said.

We have created something extraordinary with the National Cricket League, said Arun Agarwal, Chairman of the NCL. It's not just about world-class cricket, but also about making a difference in the world through sport. These theme nights will inspire and connect fans with meaningful causes.

Cricket with a Purpose theme evenings:

October 4: The National Cricket League starts in style at UT Dallas.

October 5: Domestic violence awareness evening
Every run is important. This evening stands up for a safer future and is all about raising awareness and supporting survivors of domestic violence.

October 6: Community Partner Appreciation Evening
In honor of the people and organizations who stand side by side with NCL's success. From local heroes to key stakeholders, this evening celebrates the backbone of the league and their contributions.

October 7: Veterans Night

Pays sincere tribute to those who served. Sons of Yankee legends Mickey Mantle and Billy MartinDavid Mantle and Billy Martin Jr. will be signing autographs, with all proceeds benefiting the Special Forces Charitable Trust. Veterans are honored with performances by Danny Gringo and Raga Boyz, celebrating their courage and sacrifice.

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October 8: Heroes' evening for healthcare and public safety

With UTSW as its official healthcare partner, NCL will honor the memory of Officer Darron Burks, who made the ultimate sacrifice during his military service.

A special appearance by Javed Ali will salute the dedication and service of the everyday heroes, healthcare professionals, first responders and public safety officials who keep our communities safe and healthy.

October 9: Night of Sustainability
The NCL aims to be a CO2 neutral event by 2030. On this evening, the competition, powered by solar energy, plants a tree for every border crossing. Wajid Ali will perform as we celebrate the future of green sports.

October 10: UT Dallas Alumni Night
Comet pride takes over as the NCL honors UT Dallas alumni. With a performance by Tanmay Chaturvedi, it is an evening full of school spirit and cricket.

October 12-14: the play-offs
The stakes are high, win or go home. The best teams compete for the ultimate prize as the tournament reaches its thrilling finale. Fans will witness the best of cricket under the lights of Texas.

The NCL tournament kicks off with Bollywood superstar Mika Singh and features theme nights, bringing a Coachella-like energy. This season, NCL brings together cricket legends known worldwide Sunil Gavaskar, Zaheer Abbas, Wasim Akram, Dilip Vengsarkar, Sir Vivian Richards, Venkatesh Prasad, Sanath Jayasuriya, Moin Khan and Blair Franklin. The cricket heroes will guide and coach the next generation of players.

The competition will also feature top players from around the world including Shahid Afridi, SureshRaina, Dinesh Karthik, Shakib Al Hasan, Robin Uthappa, Tabraiz Shamsi, Chris Lynn, Angelo Mathews, Colin Munro, Sam Billings, Mohammad Nabi, Johnson Charles.

Through its partnership with Sports Illustrated and broadcast on ESPN, SONY Max, SKY and Fox Sports, the NCL brings cricket to more than 2.5 billion fans worldwide. As one of the most watched sports in the world, cricket's footprint in the US is growing at a rapid pace, with the NCL leading the way, the release said.