The 2024 T20 Cricket World Cup in the USA serves several purposes, aiming to enhance the sport’s visibility and appeal among locals, especially with Los Angeles hosting the 2028 Summer Games, reintroducing cricket after a long hiatus. Venu Pisike, Chairman of USA Cricket, discussed the nation’s readiness for the 20-team tournament starting June 1.
While cricket thrives as the primary sport in many participating countries, it is still establishing itself in the West, particularly in the US and Canada. The ninth edition of the T20 WC marks America’s debut, with their inaugural match against Canada on the opening day in Group A, alongside Ireland, India, and Pakistan.
Pisike, speaking to the PTI news agency, emphasized the tournament’s significance for cricket’s expansion in the US, foreseeing a boost in momentum, audience engagement, and eventual impact on the LA28 Games.
He highlighted the World Cup’s role in raising awareness, with the added prospect of cricket featuring in the Olympics, aiming to capitalize on the USA’s passion for sports.
New York is poised to host a significant match, with a newly built stadium set to be unveiled just a week before the tournament. The pitch, transported from Adelaide, Australia, promises a balance between bat and ball.
Pisike acknowledged the changes in governance since the ICC suspended the previous cricketing body due to government interference in 2019. He stressed the importance of compliance with Olympic guidelines, ensuring streamlined governance and financial management for the sport’s development in the country.