SEATTLE, WA — The Seattle Orcas today announced that CEO Hemant Dua will transition from his role with the franchise as he returns to India to lead a portfolio of major sports infrastructure initiatives focused on modernization and expanding access to world-class sporting facilities across the subcontinent.

Dua’s transition to India builds on a career spanning sports franchise leadership, commercial growth, and major international event execution. Earlier in his career, he worked across Asia with Octagon on initiatives tied to the Beijing Olympics, including sponsor consulting and coordination with National Olympic Committees, an experience that now motivates his next chapter in developing modern sports infrastructure in India.

During his tenure with the Seattle Orcas, Dua played a central role in helping build the franchise, contributing across strategy, operations, partnerships, and long-term growth. His leadership helped position the organization for continued momentum as cricket deepens its roots in the United States.

“Leading the Seattle Orcas has been the honor of a lifetime. We’ve built a foundation here that will support the growth of cricket in the U.S. for decades to come,” said Hemant Dua. “As I transition back to India, I am excited to apply the lessons learned in the American market to ambitious new infrastructure projects that will shape the future of athletes back home.”

“We are grateful to Hemant for his leadership and commitment to the Seattle Orcas,” said Soma Somasegar, Co-Owner of the Seattle Orcas. “He played an important role in strengthening the financial side of the organization and in building meaningful relationships with sponsors and partners that have helped support our growth. His contributions have left a lasting mark on the franchise, and we wish him every success in this next chapter.”

“Hemant has been a leader and a trusted partner in working closely with GMR Sports and guided the team through the past two seasons,” said Sanjay Parthasarathy, Co-Owner of the Seattle Orcas. “He has helped establish a strong foundation for the future, driving innovation with initiatives such as the upcoming Women’s T20 Tournament. We thank him for his leadership and look forward to seeing the impact he will make in India.”

“Hemant has been instrumental in building the Seattle Orcas into a strong and respected franchise,” said Kiran Kumar Grandhi, Chairman, GMR Sports. As he returns to India to assume a broader position within our growing sports portfolio, his leadership and presence will be key as we enter the next phase of expansion. His global experience and hands-on approach will bring significant value as we continue to build high-quality sports infrastructure and a more robust sporting ecosystem “. We thank him for what he has built with the Seattle Orcas and look forward to the contributions he will make in this next chapter.”

The Seattle Orcas will continue building on the foundation established during his tenure as the franchise looks ahead to its next stage of growth.

About GMR Sports:

Founded in 2008, GMR Sports represents the sports sector of the GMR Group. It is driven by a mission to connect people, nurture talent, and establish sports as a powerful unifying platform both within India and globally. Committed to becoming a respected and influential brand in the sports industry, GMR Sports embarked on its journey with cricket, chosen for its widespread appeal as the ideal starting point for the Group’s first-ever sports venture.

The journey began with the Delhi Capitals, the city’s first-ever cricket franchise and the sole representative of India’s national capital in the IPL. As part of its mission to broaden its impact, GMR Sports soon diversified its portfolio, adding sports that resonate deeply with the Indian community. The company now owns UP Yoddhas in the Pro Kabaddi League and Telugu Yoddhas in the Ultimate Kho Kho League, additionally, has recently ventured into the league by acquiring rights to the Rugby Premium League, reinforcing its dedication to supporting regional talent and promoting indigenous sports. Expanding its global footprint, GMR Sports now holds franchises in international markets, including Dubai Capitals in ILT20, Pretoria Capitals in SA20, Seattle Orcas in Major League Cricket (US), and Hampshire County Cricket Club in England. Through these initiatives, GMR Sports continues to strengthen its presence on the world stage.

About Seattle Orcas:

The Seattle Orcas are owned by an investor group of current and former Microsoft executives, technology entrepreneurs and venture capitalists - Soma Somasegar, Sanjay Parthasarathy, Satya Nadella, Samir Bodas and Ashok Krishnamurthi - in partnership with the GMR Group, co-owners of the Delhi Capitals. Hailing from the Pacific Northwest, a hotbed for the sport, the Seattle Orcas aim to spread the love of cricket throughout the United States with its inclusive values and its commitment to success. The team is built on the support of sports fans and families in the region, the local community, and players from around the world.

For press inquiries, contact Jessica Ivey at jessica@seattleorcas.com