sportsdunia logo
Search Icon

Advertisement

Advertisement

Washington Freedom: Know All About Players, Owners, Captains, Coaches, Records, and More

10 min
Washington Freedom

Washington Freedom represents the heart of the nation’s capital. This franchise brings together the energy of Washington, D.C., with a bold vision for cricket in the U.S. Launched in 2023, they’ve quickly won over fans with their fast-paced, entertaining brand of cricket. At the centre of it all is owner Sanjay Govil, an Indian-American entrepreneur who’s gone all in on building a world-class setup, both on and off the field.

Their home ground is the George Mason Cricket Stadium in Fairfax, Virginia, a buzzing venue that’s becoming a go-to spot for passionate cricket fans. Leading the team is seasoned Aussie Moises Henriques, backed by a strong mix of global stars and promising American talent. Whether you're a longtime cricket lover or just getting into the sport, the Washington Freedom is a team that stands for more than just wins.

Team Information

Washington Freedom is quickly becoming a team to rally behind. Launched in 2023, they’re owned by Indian-American entrepreneur Sanjay Govil and led on the field by seasoned Australian all-rounder Moises Henriques. With a passionate fan base and a clear goal to grow cricket in the U.S., Washington Freedom is on track to become one of the true powerhouses in Major League Cricket.

Full NameWashington Freedom
Nick NameFreedom
Founded2023
Current OwnersSanjay Govil (Entrepreneur and Technologist)
CoachesRicky Ponting (Head Coach), Dale Steyn (Bowling Coach)
CaptainSteve Smith
Winning RecordsMLC Champions 2024
Home GroundGeorge Mason Cricket Stadium, Fairfax, Virginia
Secondary Home GroundN/A
Washington Freedom Jersey
Image Credits: Official X Account of Washington Freedom/@WSHFreedom

Washington Freedom’s 2024 jersey features the team’s signature red, white, and blue colours, reflecting American pride and unity. The newly unveiled logo centres on a bald eagle, symbolising power, focus, and determination. The shield design and stars evoke protection, resilience, and the United States’ legacy, ensuring strong brand recognition.

Advertisement

Washington Freedom Captain, Vice-Captain, Details

Steve Smith was the Washington Freedom captain, and he led his team to their maiden MLC title in 2024, but in 2025, he was available for only two games due to international commitments. The franchise has announced Glenn Maxwell as the new captain for the 2025 season. Mark Chapman joins as a key middle-order reinforcement, while Ricky Ponting continues as head coach.

Washington Freedom History

Washington Freedom debuted in Major League Cricket in 2023, finishing third in their inaugural season and reaching the playoffs. In 2024, they clinched their first MLC title with a dominant win in the final, showcasing rapid growth and establishing themselves as a formidable force in American franchise cricket.

Washington Freedom Owner

Washington Freedom is owned by Sanjay Govil, an Indian-American entrepreneur and tech industry leader. Govil is a founding investor in Major League Cricket and also holds significant sports investments globally. He partnered with George Mason University to develop the team’s home stadium in Fairfax, Virginia.

Advertisement

Fanatics Banner

Washington Freedom Administration & Support Staff

The achievements of Washington Freedom are driven not only by the skill and determination of their players but also by the dedication and expertise of their administrative and support staff. After a strong showing in their first two seasons, including a historic MLC title win in 2024, the team is aiming to build on this momentum. Following strategic management changes and a revamped support staff, Washington Freedom is prioritising performance consistency and operational excellence.

Team OwnerSanjay Govil
Team & Cricket Operations ManagerCraig Afonso
Head CoachRicky Ponting
MentorN/A
Batting CoachMichael Klinger
Bowling CoachDale Steyn
Fielding CoachN/A
Bowling AnalystBenji Hoppitt
Strength & Conditioning CoachBurt Cockley
PhysiotherapistRyan Farrell

Head Coach

Ricky Ponting, former Australian captain and cricket legend, leads the Washington Freedom as head coach. Known for his strategic acumen and motivational skills, he plays a crucial role in shaping the team’s competitive edge and success.

Mentor

Washington Freedom currently does not have an official team mentor. However, the franchise relies on experienced coaching staff and senior players to guide and inspire the squad, fostering growth and strong team dynamics.

Advertisement

Skyscanner Banner

Batting Coach

Michael Klinger serves as the batting coach for the Washington Freedom. A prolific former Australian domestic cricketer, Klinger brings a wealth of T20 experience and tactical insight, helping players refine their technique and develop effective strategies at the crease.

Bowling Coach

Dale Steyn, a legendary South African fast bowler, is Washington Freedom’s bowling coach. Renowned for his pace and swing, Steyn imparts technical expertise and mental toughness, guiding both emerging and established bowlers to maximize their potential in high-pressure situations.

Fielding Coach

The fielding coach focuses on improving agility, coordination, and fielding standards, ensuring the team remains sharp and competitive in the field. Currently, there is no publicly available information about the team's fielding coach.

Advertisement

Bowling Analyst

For the 2025 season, the franchise has appointed Benji Hoppitt as their bowling analyst. He is responsible for providing in-depth data analysis and strategic insights, helping bowlers refine their plans and adapt to different match situations.

Strength and Conditioning Coach

Burt Cockley is Washington Freedom’s strength and conditioning coach. He focuses on players’ physical fitness, injury prevention, and recovery, ensuring the squad maintains peak performance throughout the demanding Major League Cricket season.

Physiotherapist

Ryan Farrell is the physiotherapist for Washington Freedom. He brings medical expertise and practical experience to help players recover from injuries, manage physical stress, and maintain overall health, playing a crucial role in the team’s sustained performance.

Advertisement

Washington Freedom Sponsorships

Washington Freedom’s major sponsorship for 2025 is a multi-year partnership with Clover, a Fiserv brand. Clover is the Official Partner and Kit Sponsor, with branding on playing kits and at match venues, aiming to elevate fan experience and expand cricket’s reach in the U.S.

Washington Freedom Social Media

Washington Freedom maintains an active presence across social media platforms, regularly sharing match updates and behind-the-scenes content. Their digital strategy focuses on building a vibrant cricket community and promoting the sport’s growth throughout the United States and beyond.

Washington Freedom Instagram

Washington Freedom Instagram handle is @wshfreedom, which showcases player highlights and training sessions. Washington Freedom connects with supporters, amplifies its brand, and fosters enthusiasm for cricket among a diverse, digitally savvy audience.

Advertisement

Washington Freedom Twitter

Washington Freedom’s Twitter provides real-time match updates, player news, and exclusive behind-the-scenes content. More than 4K ardent followers follow the Major League Cricket team. Their X handle is @WSHFreedom.

Washington Freedom Facebook

The Washington Freedom Facebook page provides fans a close look at the team's precious moments. The MLC franchise has over 140K followers on Facebook who cheer for the team.

Washington Freedom Stats

Washington Freedom has quickly risen in Major League Cricket, reaching the playoffs in their debut season and clinching the MLC title in 2024. Their squad features a blend of international stars and domestic talent, and with only two seasons played, their statistical records are already impressive.

Washington Freedom Batting Stats

Washington Freedom
Image Credits: Official X Account of Washington Freedom/@WSHFreedom

Travis Head and Steven Smith were the top run-scorers in the 2024 season, each amassing 336 runs in 9 innings. Smith averaged 56.00 and played a match-winning knock in the final. Glenn Maxwell also contributed crucial runs in the middle order.

PlayerMatchesInningsRunsBatting AverageStrike RateFoursSixes
Steve Smith9933656.00140.003411
Travis Head9933648.00145.003913
Glenn Maxwell5515338.25152.00148

Washington Freedom Bowling Stats

Saurabh Netravalkar led the bowling attack with 15 wickets in 7 innings at an average of 13.46 in 2024. Rachin Ravindra provided spin support with 12 wickets in 6 innings, while Lockie Ferguson added 11 wickets in 8 innings.

PlayerMatchesOversRuns ConcededWicketsBowling AvgStrike Rate
Saurabh Netravalkar727.02021513.4610.8
Rachin Ravindra621.073126.0810.5
Lockie Ferguson828.02671124.2715.3

Advertisement

Washington Freedom Performance Over the Years

Washington Freedom debuted in Major League Cricket in 2023, finishing third in their inaugural season after a strong playoff run. In 2024, under captain Steve Smith, they won the MLC championship, showcasing their rapid rise in American cricket. The team aims to defend their title in 2025 with a balanced squad and strong leadership.

YearCaptainMatches PlayedWinsLossesResultTop BattersRunsTop BowlersWicketsWin %
2023Steve Smith743PlayoffsSteven Smith280Saurabh Netravalkar1257%
2024Steve Smith972ChampionsTravis Head336Saurabh Netravalkar1578%

Washington Freedom 2025 Squad: Players to watch out for

Washington Freedom's 2025 squad features several key players to watch. With the experienced Steve Smith at the helm, the team also counts on the dynamic Rachin Ravindra and the consistent Saurabh Netravalkar to lead their charge. Along with these three, their new captain, Glenn Maxwell, is also among the players to watch out for from the squad of Washington Freedom.

Washington Freedom Full Squad

Washington Freedom players are very prominent, including Steve Smith, Travis Head, Glenn Maxwell, Rachin Ravindra, Glenn Phillips, Mark Chapman, Jack Edwards, Mukhtar Ahmed, Andries Gous, Obus Pienaar, Justin Dill, Ian Holland, Mitchell Owen, Saurabh Netravalkar, Lockie Ferguson, Ben Sears, Jason Behrendorff, Amila Aponso, Yasir Mohammad, Abhishek Paradkar, and Lahiru Milantha.

Advertisement

FAQs

What is the history of Washington Freedom in Major League Cricket?

+

Washington Freedom debuted in Major League Cricket (MLC) in 2023, reaching the playoffs in their first season. In 2024, they dominated the league, finishing top of the table and clinching their maiden MLC title with a commanding 96-run win over San Francisco Unicorns in the final.

Who is the current captain of Washington Freedom?

+

Steve Smith is the current captain of Washington Freedom, having led the team to their first MLC title in 2024.

Who is the owner of Washington Freedom?

+

Washington Freedom is owned by Indian American entrepreneur Sanjay Govil.

Which players are in the current squad of Washington Freedom?

+

The 2025 squad includes Steve Smith (captain), Glenn Maxwell, Travis Head, Rachin Ravindra, Mark Chapman, Glenn Phillips, Lockie Ferguson, Jason Behrendorff, Saurabh Netravalkar, Ben Sears, Mukhtar Ahmed, Jack Edwards, Ian Holland, Justin Dill, Mitchell Owen, Obus Pienaar, Abhishek Paradkar, Amila Aponso, Yasir Mohammad, Andries Gous, and Lahiru Milantha.

How many Major League Cricket titles has Washington Freedom won?

+

Washington Freedom has won one Major League Cricket title, securing their maiden championship in 2024.

Who is the all-time leading run scorer for Washington Freedom?

+

Travis Head was the top run scorer for Washington Freedom in 2024, amassing 336 runs in 9 innings.

Who is the highest wicket-taker for Washington Freedom?

+

Saurabh Netravalkar is the leading wicket-taker for Washington Freedom, taking 15 wickets in the 2024 season.

What is the home ground of Washington Freedom?

+

Washington Freedom’s home ground is the George Mason Cricket Stadium in Fairfax, Virginia.

Who are the key players to watch in Washington Freedom?

+

Key players include Steve Smith, Travis Head, Glenn Maxwell, Rachin Ravindra, Lockie Ferguson, and Saurabh Netravalkar.

Who is the head coach of Washington Freedom?

+

Ricky Ponting serves as the head coach of Washington Freedom.

What are the best performances of Washington Freedom in Major League Cricket history?

+

Their best performance came in 2024, when Washington Freedom finished top of the league and won the MLC title with a dominant 96-run victory in the final, highlighted by standout performances from Steve Smith, Travis Head, and Saurabh Netravalkar.

Cricket Promotional Banner
Cricket Promotional BannerCricket Promotional Banner

Conversation

(0 Comments)

Loading comments...

Trending

Edited by- Meet Sharma
Follow Us:
sportsdunia google newssportsdunia google news

Editor's Pick