The World Championship of Cricket (WCC) is set to launch an eight-team Legends T20 franchise league in Shanghai, scheduled for May 2027. This initiative marks a significant step in expanding cricket's presence in China, a country that has long sought to broaden its sporting horizons. The league aims to attract some of the sport's most celebrated former international stars, offering a unique opportunity for local audiences to engage with cricket at a high level.

This landmark competition is being introduced in partnership with Dongyuehui Sports, which operates the Shaxi Town Cricket Centre in Taicang, Jiangsu Province. The foundation for this venture was laid with a Memorandum of Understanding signed in October 2026 by Praveen Sharma, Chairman of WCC, and Yonghui Tong, Chairman of Dongyuehui Sports. The agreement signifies a commitment to delivering a world-class cricketing experience that aims to inspire the next generation of players and fans in China.S2

The timing of the league's launch is particularly significant as the International Cricket Council (ICC) has identified new growth markets for the sport, with cricket's inclusion in the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games providing additional momentum. Praveen Sharma emphasized the potential of cricket to connect diverse cultures and highlighted China as a key opportunity for the sport's growth. Amandeep Singh, Founder of WCC, expressed excitement about the league, stating that it will allow fans to witness celebrated cricketers in action and introduce new audiences to the game.S2