Inside Seattle Orcas’ Strategic Rebuild for MLC's Long-Term Success

The Seattle Orcas are entering a new chapter in Major League Cricket, led by CEO Hemant Dua. 

Appointed just before the 2024 season, Dua has since reshaped the franchise with a revamped coaching staff and a strategic vision aimed at long-term success. "We have made big changes in our setup," Dua told cricexec. "We’ve got a completely new set of support staff and coaching staff, except for a few that have continued from last year."

The franchise’s new coach, Matthew Mott, brings a wealth of experience, having led England to the T20 World Cup in 2022. “I’m incredibly excited to be joining the Seattle Orcas for the MLC,” Mott said. “It’s a fantastic opportunity to be part of a growing competition, and I can’t wait to work with the players, owners, and staff at the Orcas to build towards long-term, sustainable success.”

Dua emphasized the importance of continuity in the team’s rebuild, citing the significance of experienced players like Ian Bell and Munaf Patel. "Ian is known as one of the top English batsmen in his time... and Munaf’s a great bowler—was a top pace bowler of his time, and part of a World Cup-winning squad," Dua said.

The Orcas' ownership group, which includes tech leaders like Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella and the cricket powerhouse GMR Group, is pivotal to the team’s success. "I would also like to add that I am blessed to have support from the rest of the ownership group," Dua remarked. "Especially Soma Somasegar and Sanjay Parthasarathy, who work closely with me on the vision and strategy for the growth of the Seattle Orcas."