Indian cricket star SKY to serve as MLB Ambassador

The SKY is the limit for Major League Baseball.

On Wednesday, MLB announced a new partnership with Indian cricket star Suryakumar Yadav -- known as SKY -- in order to expand the presence of baseball in India. Yadav will serve as an MLB Ambassador, working with MLB on fan engagement, original content and events designed to grow the game.

“One of the best things about sport is that it brings people together, no matter where they're from,” Yadav said. “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."

Yadav might not have much experience with a baseball bat, but he is fearsome with a cricket bat. Part of the India team that won the Men’s T20 World Cup in 2024, Yadav was named his nation’s captain for the same event in 2026 and led India to victory.

SKY will take part in a series of MLB initiatives in both India and the U.S., including MLB All-Star Week in Philadelphia from Friday to Tuesday, to help introduce new audiences to baseball. He will be featured in original content and fan engagement opportunities aimed at Indian fans.

"India is home to one of the most vibrant sports cultures in the world, and this partnership allows us to connect with fans in a meaningful way," said Jeremiah Yolkut, MLB’s 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. Together, we’ll introduce more fans to the excitement, energy and culture of baseball while continuing to expand the game's reach throughout the country."