Cricket fever is all over the world with international recognition of the sport in a lot of countries including America. This is mainly due to the competitive nature of the sport and the multiple cups & championships held every year, with top players from all around the world. In the recent years, this craze is spreading towards the United States, with massive fans who engage in the sport in every way!
Since 2017, we have seen an increase in the playing of the sports with around 6000 cricket teams and a large number of cricket players in United States. Several official leagues throughout the US have formed which has led to the reviving of the sport in the country.
Table of Contents
HISTORY OF THE FAN FAVOURITE SPORT CRICKET
Cricket is said to be invented back in the 16th century where it was majorly played in parts of the British and other regions. Though Cricket was played in the US, it did not last very long as it was not regarded as a professional sport back then. Another compelling reason for its decline was it being replaced by the famous bat and ball game – baseball. Baseball soon became an official sport of the United States, which is largely played and watched in the United States till date.
GROWING POPULARITY OF THE CRICKET IN THE RECENT YEARS IN U.S
There are several cricket leagues in the United States with the biggest league being the Major League Cricket as of 2023. Local as well top international players are part of the teams featured in the league. The league supports the t20 games format with the recent season held in March 2023. This has greatly contributed to the cricket popularity in the United States.
The growing love for the sport is largely due to the South Asian countries immigrants that have settled in America – spreading the love for cricket! Moreover, the governing body, USA Cricket is also actively working towards the success and expansion of the sport, with a number of major and minor leagues being developed across the country.
Author’s Opinion
Cricket is being recognized more and more in the US as it is played at collegiate level as well as in international matches. A great milestone of the success of the sport will be seen through the co-hosting of the T20 World Cup 2024 with West Indies – being the first ever World Cup to be held in US.
COMMON FAQs REGARDING CRICKET:
Q. Is Baseball more popular in the US than Cricket?
Yes, baseball is one of the oldest sports that is played and watched and is undoubtedly more popular than cricket in the US.
Q. How many players are in a cricket team?
There 11 cricket players in a team. The game is played between teams of two.
Q. Has the US participated in the ICC Men’s World Cup?
No, US has not played in the ICC Men’s World Cup. However, it will be co-hosting the next World Cup and have secured a place in the competition!
Q. Are there any Cricket leagues in the US?
Yes, there are several cricket leagues in the US as of 2023. The most famous and biggest league is the Major League Cricket.
Q. Where did cricket originate from?
Cricket originated from parts of England and it is still a popular sport there today.
