Ricky Ponting confirms he is in active discussions to coach Washington Freedom in MLC
Ponting previously helmed Mumbai Indians in the IPL and served as an assistant coach under Justin Langer for the Australian team, most notably in the 2019 Men's ODI World Cup.
Melbourne: Australia's legendary captain Ricky Ponting has confirmed that he is in active talks to coach Washington Freedom in the second edition of Major League Cricket (MLC) in the US.
In the first MLC season in 2023, which was financially backed by several IPL teams, Washington, who was coached by Greg Shipperd, finished in third place after losing to MI New York by 16 runs in the Eliminator.
“We're not there yet, I haven't recorded anything yet. There have been some discussions. I haven't committed anything yet, but I have had some initial conversations. The time of year (when the MLC is on) suits me,” Ponting told SEN Radio.
The second edition of the MLC kicks off just four days after the Men's T20 World Cup final is played at the Kensington Oval in Barbados on June 30. Before that, Ponting will coach Delhi Capitals in IPL 2024. Currently, he is not confirmed yet. is yet to comment on the 2024 T20 Men's World Cup.
“I now have a few weeks before the IPL which goes on to the T20 World Cup and the MLC is immediately after the World Cup. It can take another big year if I want it to. There are just some things I have to work through. If I'm actually going to commentate on the T20 World Cup or not, and if I don't, where does MLC fit in?” he added.
Ponting previously helmed Mumbai Indians in the IPL and served as an assistant coach under Justin Langer for the Australian team, most notably in the 2019 Men's ODI World Cup.
“I love the coaching side and I have enjoyed my time in the IPL over the last six to seven years. I was able to help the Australian team on a few tours when Justin Langer was coach.
The game is in my blood and I love working with the best players in the world and trying to find a way to make them a little better. All in the hope that we can win some games along the way,” he concluded.