Page 33 - The Indian EYE 042426

Newsmakers of the Week APRIL 24, 2026 | The Indian Eye 33

RAKHI ISRANI SONU SOOD & MIKA SINGH

Attorney Emerges as a Leading Duo buys GT20 team in National

Candidate in California’s 14th District Cricket League

oronto: The National Cricket League (NCL) announced actor Sonu
Sood and singer Mika Singh’s joining in NCL GT20 as team co-own-
Ters, marking a major step in the league’s continued growth across North
remont, CA: Rakhi Israni has rapidly emerged as a leading candidate America.
in California’s 14th Congressional District, drawing increasing attention
Their involvement brings significant global visibility and cultural influ-
Fin what remains a crowded and competitive race. As the campaign has ence to a league that is rapidly connecting established cricket markets with
unfolded, she has established herself as a serious contender—one that political emerging audiences in the United States and Canada, according to a press
observers are watching closely. release from NCL.
Her candidacy has also generated interest far beyond the district, partic-
This is part of the National Cricket League’s broader vision to build a tru-
ularly among Indian Americans who are closely following the community’s ly global cricket platform--one that brings together players, fans, and partners
growing civic and political presence in the United States. For many, Israni’s across regions. By linking the passion of South Asia and the Caribbean with
campaign represents a broader moment—one in which decades of achieve- the momentum building in North America, NCL is helping shape the next
ment in business, medicine, engineering, law, and technology are now being phase of the sport’s growth.
matched by greater visibility in public leadership. Cricket is gaining traction across North America, driven by a diverse and
If elected, Israni would mark an important milestone. She would be
among the first Indian American women to represent California in Con- growing fan base, increased international participation, and rising commercial
interest. With the sport set to return to the Olympics, the timing presents a
gress—reflecting the continued growth of Indian American civic participa- significant opportunity to expand its reach and relevance in new markets.
tion and leadership. While leaders such as Pramila Jayapal have already
broken barriers in the U.S. House of Representatives, and Kamala Harris
has served at the highest levels of national leadership, Israni’s candidacy “Cricket has always had the power to unite people across cultures.
signals the expanding geographic and political reach of the community’s What the National Cricket League is building in North America is
representation.
Israni brings a wide-ranging and substantive background to the race. She an important step in taking the game to new audiences. With the
is an attorney, entrepreneur, educator, and mother of four. Olympics ahead and growing interest in the region, this is the
Her campaign has emphasized public service, fiscal discipline, and prac-
tical problem-solving—priorities that supporters say are grounded in both right time to be part of that journey,” Sonu Sood said.
her professional experience and her approach to leadership. With a career
spanning law, education, business, and community engagement, she has po- “Cricket and entertainment naturally come together, and North America
sitioned herself as a candidate who understands both policy and real-world offers a unique platform for both. The diversity and energy here make it an
challenges. exciting market, and I’m proud to be part of the National Cricket League and
That depth of experience has helped distinguish her in a competitive NCL GT20,” Mika Singh said.
field where credibility and discipline are critical. Supporters frequently point Peter Jagpal, the co-owner of Vancouver Guardians, added, “Cricket in
to her work ethic and breadth of expertise as defining strengths—qualities Canada is entering a significant phase of growth, and NCL GT20 is helping
that often determine which candidates gain traction and break through in create a strong platform for the sport across North America. We are proud to
high-stakes races. be part of a league that is building the future of cricket in Canada and expand-
Her growing stature has also drawn support from national leaders. ing its reach to new audiences.”
Suhas Subramanyam noted, “Rakhi is a successful entrepreneur who has
committed herself to a life of service. She has proven herself to be a strong To read more about Indian diaspora and Global Indians, log on to and follow
advocate for working families like hers, and I know she will be a great addi- our website www.TheIndianEYE.com
tion to Congress.”

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