The Big Cricket League (BCL) is set to launch its second season from March 11 to March 22, 2026, at the Shaheed Vijay Singh Pathik Stadium in Greater Noida. Positioned as the world’s first Pro-Am cricket league, BCL continues to promote a format that combines experienced international cricketers with emerging amateur players on a single competitive platform.
Following a well-received inaugural edition, Season 2 is expected to raise both the quality of cricket and the overall scale of the tournament.
Unique Pro-Am Format Back in Focus
What differentiates BCL from traditional franchise leagues is its Pro-Am structure. Each team fields a combination of seasoned international professionals and ambitious amateur cricketers, creating a blend of experience and hunger within the same playing XI.
This format adds a tactical layer to the competition. Captains and team management must strategically integrate amateur players into key match situations, rather than limiting them to supporting roles. The format also tests adaptability, as amateur players compete in high-pressure scenarios alongside established stars.
Player Auction to Shape Season 2
The player auction, scheduled for February 16, is expected to play a crucial role in determining team combinations and overall balance. Franchises will focus on building squads with strong batting line-ups, versatile all-rounders and bowling units capable of handling varied match conditions.
With a 12-day tournament window, squad depth and workload management are likely to influence consistency and performance across fixtures.
International Experience Strengthens Competition
Season 1 featured prominent names such as Shikhar Dhawan, Suresh Raina, Irfan Pathan, Yusuf Pathan, Herschelle Gibbs and Imran Tahir. Their participation added competitive intensity and provided valuable exposure for amateur players sharing the field with them.
Season 2 is expected to attract additional international cricketers, potentially increasing the tournament’s competitiveness and national visibility.
Organisational Support in Place
The Greater Noida Industrial Development Authority (GNIDA) is supporting the event, with preparations underway to ensure smooth execution at the Shaheed Vijay Singh Pathik Stadium.
Prerna Singh, ACEO, Greater Noida Industrial Development Authority (GNIDA), said,
“Greater Noida Authority actively supports initiatives that combine sporting excellence with regional advancement. Hosting Big Cricket League Season 2 at Shaheed Vijay Singh Pathik Stadium is a significant step toward positioning the city as a leading sports destination in the region.”
League Leadership Highlights Growth
League Commissioner Dilip Vengsarkar reiterated the league’s broader objective.
“We are proud to bring Season 2 of the Big Cricket League to Uttar Pradesh, with the support of the Greater Noida Industrial Development Authority (GNIDA). As the world’s first Pro-Am cricket league, BCL is committed to building a professional platform where emerging amateur talent competes alongside established international cricketers. Uttar Pradesh’s strong focus on developing world-class sports infrastructure provides the ideal environment for this vision to thrive. Through this season, we aim to further strengthen the pathway for aspiring cricketers across the state turning ‘Ab Sapne Banenge Haqeeqat’ into a tangible opportunity on the field.”
Founder and President Rudra Pratap Singh described Season 2 as a defining milestone.
“Season 2 marks a defining milestone for the Big Cricket League. The support from the Greater Noida Industrial Development Authority (GNIDA) reinforces our vision of building India’s most powerful Pro-Am cricket platform. With international stars joining hands with emerging amateur talent, this season will set new benchmarks in competitive cricket.”
Chief Patron Puneet Singh emphasised structural progression.
“The response to Season 1 validated our model. Season 2 is not just an expansion it is an evolution. From the player auction on 16th February to the grand matches in March, every aspect of this season has been strategically elevated to deliver scale, quality, and impact.”
CEO and Co-Founder Annirudh Chauhan highlighted sustainability and long-term growth.
“Season 2 represents scale, structure, and serious cricketing ambition. With support from the Greater Noida Industrial Development Authority (GNIDA), BCL is entering a new phase of growth. Our focus is not just on hosting matches, but on building a sustainable platform where global professionals and India’s rising amateur talent compete at the highest level.”
Season 2 Outlook
From a cricketing perspective, the second season will test how effectively teams adapt to the Pro-Am balance. Tactical decisions, middle-overs control, finishing roles and bowling rotations are expected to influence outcomes in what promises to be a competitive 12-day window.
As March 11 approaches, the Big Cricket League continues to position itself as an evolving platform within India’s domestic cricket landscape combining international experience with emerging ambition under one structured competition.
