The United States is hosting part of the T20 Cricket World Cup for the first time, with the tournament reaching its Super 8 stage this week. Notably, the US team has advanced, achieving a significant milestone. John Kirby, White House National Security Communications Adviser, praised the team’s progress during a press conference.
The tournament, co-hosted by the US and various Caribbean nations, has generated significant interest, particularly from the South Asian diaspora. The opening leg saw high attendance, especially for matches featuring India and Pakistan at Nassau County International Cricket Stadium in New York.
The event is part of a broader push by cricketing nations, primarily India, to penetrate the American sports market, tapping into the commercial potential and growing interest among South Asians in the US. The ICC promoted the tournament with advertisements highlighting the arrival of cricket in America.
Despite the enthusiasm, some experts remain skeptical about cricket’s long-term integration into mainstream American sports culture. Critics argue the ICC has not adequately leveraged local American interest or celebrity endorsements to promote the sport.
As the Super 8 matches continue, the US will face the West Indies and England this weekend before the final on June 29.