Major League Baseball appoints Suryakumar Yadav as India ambassador

The Major League Baseball (MLB) announced India's T20 World Cup winning captain Suryakumar Yadav as its India Ambassador on Wednesday.

Yadav has been at the forefront of the T20 revolution across the world with his innovative and aggressive batting, inspiring the newer generation of cricketers.

MLB also announced a renewal with JioStar, India's leading media and entertainment company, continuing the league's commitment to bringing live MLB games and content to fans across the country through one of the world's largest media platforms.

"India is home to one of the most vibrant sports cultures in the world, and these partnerships allow us to connect with fans in a meaningful way," said Jeremiah Yolkut, Major League Baseball, Senior Vice President of Global Operations and Events.

"Suryakumar is one of the most recognized athletes in India, with an ability to connect with millions of fans across the country. Combined with our renewed partnership with JioStar, we are building a powerful foundation to further expand baseball's reach throughout the country."

Speaking about the partnership, Yadav said, "One of the best things about sport is that it brings people together, no matter where they're from. I'm excited to partner with Major League Baseball and be part of its journey in India. I look forward to learning more about the game myself and helping more fans discover the energy, excitement and culture that make baseball something else."

Through the partnership, Yadav will participate in a series of MLB events and initiatives in both India and the United States, including MLB All-Star Week in Philadelphia during July 10-14, helping introduce baseball to new audiences while highlighting the similarities between baseball and cricket beyond the bat and ball.

He will also curate a wide range of content with MLB on originals and fan engagement opportunities designed to bring America’s favorite pastime’ closer to Indian fans.