Rising allrounder Jack Edwards will take another exciting step in his burgeoning career in July when he joins Cricket NSW partner Washington Freedom for the second season of America’s Major League Cricket (MLC).
Edwards, who won the Steve Waugh Medal for his performances last summer as NSW’s best domestic male player, had a breakthrough season for the NSW Blues and Sydney Sixers.
The 24-year-old joins new coach Ricky Ponting at the Freedom alongside another NSW Blue, Steve Smith, and fellow internationals Travis Head, Rachin Ravindra, Glenn Maxwell, Lockie Ferguson, Akeal Hosein, Marco Jansen and AJ Tye.
MLC rules allow for clubs to sign nine overseas players to complement 9-10 local US players. A maximum of six overseas players can be included in any starting Xl.
General Manager of Cricket at Washington Freedom, Cricket NSW’s Michael Klinger, said Edwards’ signing was a just reward for the hard work the hulking Northern Beaches local had put in over the last few years.
“Jack had a tremendous season last summer in all three formats and we were very impressed with his development for NSW and the Sydney Sixers,” Klinger said.
“He has really matured, is a natural leader and is a three-tool player. He can bat anywhere in the order, can bowl anywhere in the innings and is a great fielder, whether that is in the circle, in the slips or on the boundary.
“I know Ricky (Ponting) is really excited to have Jack join the group.”
The second season of MLC will begin on July 4, with the full fixture set to be announced soon.