Shah Rukh Khan’s Knight Riders Group opens first international cricket stadium in Los Angeles
The Knight Riders Group, co-owned by Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan, on Thursday became the first global cricket franchise to own an international cricket stadium. The newly built Knight Riders Cricket Ground in Los Angeles has officially hosted its first Major League Cricket (MLC) match, marking a major step in the growth of cricket in the United States.
The stadium has been designed to meet international cricket standard. The Knight Riders Cricket Ground features eight wickets on the main square and six floodlight towers standing 120 feet tall.
According to the Knight Riders Group, more than 32,000 metric tonnes of earth were moved during construction to develop the venue into a world-class cricket facility aimed at hosting elite-level matches while promoting the sport across the United States.
Speaking on the occasion, Shah Rukh Khan said the opening of the stadium fulfilled a long-held vision of bringing cricket to Los Angeles. “What started as a dream has become a reality today. Bringing cricket, the second most-watched sport in the world, to Los Angeles is a landmark moment for all of us,” he said.
The actor added that the project is more than just a sporting venue, describing it as a community space designed for entertainment, families and memorable experiences. He expressed hope that the ground would become a permanent home for cricket in Los Angeles while inspiring future generations of players and fans.
Knight Riders Sports CEO Venky Mysore said the new venue represents the group’s commitment to supporting cricket’s global expansion through long-term investment in infrastructure. He said the stadium reflects the franchise’s ambition to create a venue that players enjoy competing at, fans love visiting and the local community can proudly call its cricketing home.
Adding to the celebrations, former NBA champion Metta World Peace (formerly Ron Artest) delivered the ceremonial first ball before the opening Major League Cricket match at the venue.
His participation highlighted the growing connection between cricket and mainstream American sports as the Knight Riders Group seeks to expand the game’s popularity in the United States.