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Glenn Maxwell has been named the new captain of Washington Freedom for the upcoming Major League Cricket (MLC) season, stepping in for Steven Smith.
Smith, who led Freedom to the MLC title last season, has international commitments with Australia that have limited his availability. He remains a key figure within the squad and is expected to captain the team in two matches this year when available.
“Smith has not been dropped,” the franchise clarified, noting his role will adjust based on his schedule.
Maxwell’s appointment follows his recent retirement from One Day Internationals, allowing him to concentrate fully on T20 cricket ahead of the 2026 World Cup. A standout performer in the previous season, Maxwell scored 153 runs in five innings, averaging 38.25 with one half-century. His bowling was equally impactful, taking 10 wickets at an average of 17, with an economy rate of 6.66.
Smith’s limited availability is due to Australia’s packed calendar, including the World Test Championship final against South Africa and a three-Test series in the West Indies. He is likely to join Washington Freedom in the brief gap between these commitments.
Elsewhere in the league, Corey Anderson will be the only U.S.-based captain this season. The former New Zealand international now represents the United States and will lead the San Francisco Unicorns. Heinrich Klaasen retains the captaincy of the Seattle Orcas, while Faf du Plessis and Sunil Narine are set to continue as captains for the Texas Super Kings and Los Angeles Knight Riders, respectively.
Washington Freedom begins its title defense against San Francisco Unicorns on June 12 at the Oakland Coliseum in California.
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