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Jun 17, 20261
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Faf du Plessis to Lead Texas Super Kings in MLC Opener Against Seattle Orcas
The Texas Super Kings begin their 2026 MLC campaign on 18 June against the Seattle Orcas, with Faf du Plessis again leading a squad that features several South African internationals. The franchise has reached the playoffs in every season since 2023 and says it remains focused on growing cricket in Texas and the wider United States.
Quick Facts
Who
Faf du Plessis
What
Texas Super Kings will host the Seattle Orcas in the opening match of the 2026 Major League Cricket season
When
18 June 2026
Where
Grand Prairie Stadium
- Texas Super Kings will host the Seattle Orcas in the opening match of the 2026 Major League Cricket season
- Faf du Plessis will captain the Texas Super Kings
- Stephen Fleming will coach the Texas Super Kings
- The squad features a strong South African contingent alongside other international and emerging American players
- Texas Super Kings have reached the playoffs in every MLC season since 2023
The Texas Super Kings will open the 2026 Major League Cricket season on 18 June against the Seattle Orcas at Grand Prairie Stadium in Texas. The side will again be captained by former South Africa skipper Faf du Plessis, with Stephen Fleming as head coach, as the franchise continues to field a strong mix of South African internationals and overseas talent.
Du Plessis remains the main draw for South African followers, while Keshav Maharaj and Wiaan Mulder add to the Proteas presence in the squad. The team also includes players such as Akeal Hosein, Nandre Burger and Donovan Ferreira, reflecting a broader blend of established international experience and developing American talent.
Texas have reached the playoffs in every MLC season since the league began in 2023, underscoring their consistency in the competition. The franchise has also become an increasingly familiar destination for South African cricketers seeking opportunities in overseas T20 leagues.
In comments attributed to Du Plessis, he said he was looking forward to leading the side at Grand Prairie Stadium again and wanted to give supporters "a season worth showing up for." Co-owner Anurag Jain said the franchise was focused on building cricket in Texas and across the United States, alongside developing a pathway for young players.
Topics
Why This Matters
For MLC followers and South African cricket fans, this confirms Texas Super Kings as a perennial contender with a clear South African identity, offering reliable access to top-tier T20 action in the US. The franchise's sustained success and commitment to developing local talent signal growing opportunities for cricket in North America, making this a key event to track for market expansion and player movement in the global T20 landscape.
Timeline & Sources
Jan 1, 2023
WireTexas Super Kings began a run of playoff appearances in every MLC season
Jun 18, 2026
WireTexas Super Kings host the Seattle Orcas in the opening match of the 2026 MLC season at Grand Prairie Stadium