Shah Rukh Khan’s Knight Riders franchise has made history by becoming the first ever global franchise to build and operate an international cricket stadium outside its home market. The stadium welcomed its first Major League Cricket (MLC) match as the Los Angeles Knight Riders took on Washington Freedom in the x match of the tournament on Thursday. This signals a significant step in cricket's growing presence in the USA and this historic move is set to help cricket grow in the United States.

This stadium has been built keeping in mind the international standards and the venue features eight pitches on the main square, ICC-compliant playing dimensions and six 120-foot floodlight towers. As per reports more than 32,000 metric tonnes of earth were moved during construction to create the purpose-built arena. Speaking about this venture, Shah Rukh Khan, co-owner of the Knight Riders Group, said in a statement. "What started as a dream has become a reality today," He has also put out a tweet regarding this along with a video. Watch the entire video here.

 

In the video Shah Rukh Khan was giving the voice over background where he said "Bringing cricket, the second most-watched sport in the world, to Los Angeles is a landmark moment for all of us. Through this long-term partnership between Fairplex and Knight Riders, we are creating much more than a cricket venue. We are building a space that celebrates community, togetherness, energy and entertainment."

He also added that this will inspire generations of fans "It is a place built not just for sport, but also for entertainment, for families and for memories that will last forever. We hope this becomes a home for cricket in Los Angeles and inspires generations of fans and players alike. This is for Los Angeles, for cricket fans across the globe and for the Knight Riders family. Believe in Purple and Gold."  

Knight Riders Global Franchise dominating the leagues around the world

Knight Riders group have managed to make their mark in the cricketing eco system. They have their franchise in most of the countries. Their rich portfolio includes the Kolkata Knight Riders (Indian Premier League), Trinbago Knight Riders (Caribbean Premier League), Abu Dhabi Knight Riders (International League T20) and Los Angeles Knight Riders (Major League Cricket).

Kolkata Knight Riders are three-time IPL champions, having lifted the trophy in 2012, 2014 and 2024, while also finishing runners-up in 2021. Trinbago Knight Riders are the most successful franchise in the history of CPL while Los Angeles Knight Riders are currently playing in the Major League Cricket. This venture by the Knight Riders group will help growing the game in America.