June 16 — International Cricket Council (ICC) Chairman Jay Shah attended the Major League Cricket (MLC) 2025 doubleheader over the weekend, marking a significant step in the sport’s ongoing push to establish a stronger foothold in the United States. The event, held at the Grand Prairie Stadium in Texas, witnessed record-breaking attendance and featured high-intensity T20 action with several international stars in action.
Shah’s visit to the U.S. included key discussions with Major League Cricket officials and representatives from USA Cricket. The talks reportedly focused on strengthening cricketing infrastructure, increasing grassroots engagement, and advancing commercial partnerships aimed at expanding the sport’s reach in North America.
Sources close to the development confirmed that Shah’s meetings were aimed at accelerating preparations for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, which will be jointly hosted by the United States and the West Indies. The U.S. is being viewed by the ICC as a crucial growth market with the potential to become a major hub for international cricket in the coming years.
During his visit, Shah also interacted with franchise owners, players, and local administrators, applauding the growing enthusiasm for cricket among American audiences. “The response to MLC this year has been phenomenal,” Shah said. “It’s evident that with continued support and strategic planning, the U.S. can emerge as a significant player in the global cricketing ecosystem.”
The 2025 edition of Major League Cricket has garnered significant attention, with the participation of high-profile international players such as David Warner, Rashid Khan, and Jos Buttler. The league has witnessed a notable rise in both viewership and stadium attendance, signaling increased interest in the format among American sports fans.
MLC organizers believe Shah’s visit has further strengthened the relationship between the ICC and U.S. cricket authorities. An official from the league remarked, “Jay Shah’s presence sends a strong message about the ICC’s commitment to growing cricket in America. This visit could be a turning point in taking the sport to new heights in the region.”
The ICC Chairman’s U.S. tour comes at a pivotal time as the international body ramps up efforts to diversify the sport’s global audience and investment base. Industry analysts believe that strategic engagement with American markets, coupled with events like the T20 World Cup, could pave the way for cricket’s long-term success in the Western Hemisphere.
With the groundwork being laid through partnerships, infrastructure investments, and marquee events, Jay Shah’s visit is seen as a clear endorsement of the vision to make cricket a mainstream sport in the United States.
