In a country where baseball is practically a religion, the idea of cricket gaining traction once seemed far-fetched. But that’s changing—fast.

Once considered a foreign pastime confined to expat communities from the Indian subcontinent, the Caribbean, and England, cricket is now steadily taking root in the American sports landscape. In a nation long dominated by baseball, basketball, and American football, the tide is beginning to shift—fueled by the passion of immigrant communities, strategic investment in professional leagues, and a growing youth presence.

From the booming success of Major League Cricket (MLC) to the upcoming spotlight of cricket at the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, the sport is not only making headlines—it’s making history.

For a country known for its rich sports culture and commercial clout, cricket’s rising presence in schools, stadiums, and everyday conversation marks the beginning of a new and unexpected chapter in American athletics.

• A Historical Perspective

  Cricket’s roots in the U.S. date back to the 18th century, with matches like the 1844 game between Canada and the USA—the first international cricket match ever played. However, its popularity waned as baseball captured the American imagination, offering a faster-paced and homegrown alternative. For decades, cricket remained a niche sport, largely played in community parks and immigrant enclaves.

  But in recent years, that narrative has changed. The launch of Major League Cricket (MLC) in 2023 and the ICC’s decision to include cricket in the 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles have injected fresh enthusiasm and credibility into the sport. According to a feature in The Guardian, cricket in America is now poised to grow faster than it has in over a century.

• Grassroots Growth

  The real engine behind cricket's rise in the U.S. is at the grassroots level. USA Cricket reports over 200,000 registered players and more than 400 active leagues nationwide, a number that continues to grow. Youth development programs have been instrumental, with schools and academies now offering cricket as a formal part of their sports curriculum.

  Much of this expansion is fueled by South Asian, Caribbean, and British diaspora communities, who bring a passion for the game and are actively working to pass it on to younger generations. According to CBS News, these communities have helped establish a solid fan base and infrastructure for cricket across states like Texas, New Jersey, and California.

• International Aspirations

  The inaugural season of Major League Cricket was a game-changer. With franchises backed by IPL teams and stars like Nicholas Pooran, who powered MI New York to the championship title, the MLC drew global attention and domestic excitement. These high-profile matches, held in cities like Grand Prairie, Texas, attracted thousands of fans and set the stage for cricket’s professional future in America.

  Internationally, the U.S. national team’s stunning win over Pakistan in the 2024 T20 World Cup further validated the country’s rising cricketing prowess. As reported by GQ, the team’s performance sparked headlines worldwide and drew in new fans, many of whom were watching cricket for the first time.

• Future Prospects

  Cricket is not only gaining fans—it’s generating revenue. The establishment of MLC’s base in Texas and the construction of cricket-specific stadiums have provided local economic boosts, with an estimated $100 million in economic activity generated from league operations and events, according to San Francisco Chronicle.

  With global governing bodies taking notice and American investors showing confidence, the future looks promising. As the Olympics near, and with continued investment in facilities, broadcasting, and talent development, the U.S. may well become the next major frontier for global cricket.