The Rise of Cricket in the U.S.: How the National Cricket League is Positioning for LA28 Olympics

Cricket’s global footprint is expanding rapidly in the United States. With the sport officially returning to the LA28 Olympics, the stage is set for cricket’s rise in North America. Leading this movement is the National Cricket League (NCL), which is taking bold steps to elevate the sport, engage new audiences, with a shorter, faster format, which fits the American sports landscape.

As part of this growth strategy, the NCL has announced its highly anticipated October 2025 tournament, which will take place from October 3–18, 2025. This event will not only showcase some of the world’s most elite players but they are positioning themselves for the Olympic journey.

NCL: A Driving Force for Cricket in the U.S.

The National Cricket League (NCL) has positioned itself as the leading force behind cricket’s expansion in America. With six powerhouse teams—New York Lions CC, Chicago Cricket Club, Dallas Lonestars CC, Texas Gladiators CC, Atlanta Kings CC, and Los Angeles Waves CC—the league blends cricket’s rich heritage with a shorter, faster format, Sixty Strikes, making the game more accessible to new and existing fans alike.

Beyond just a tournament, the NCL is laying the groundwork for long-term growth. Through its Collegiate Cricket League (CCL), the league—alongside affiliate partner USA Cricket—is working with universities across the U.S. to introduce cricket to students, develop training programs, and build a strong talent pipeline for future American cricketers.

“Cricket’s time in America is now. It’s a global phenomenon, and the U.S. is its next frontier,” said Arun Agarwal, Chairman of the National Cricket League. “With cricket featuring in the Olympics, the momentum has never been stronger. We’re building a movement in the U.S.—expanding our reach and making cricket an integral part of American sports.”

The Road to LA28: Building a U.S. Cricket Movement

The return of cricket to the Olympics in 2028 is an important moment for the sport. The NCL is uniquely positioned to capitalize on this momentum, creating a platform that not only entertains but also cultivates homegrown talent ahead of the global stage.

“The world is watching as cricket expands in the U.S., and the National Cricket League is leading the way,” said Haroon Lorgat, Commissioner of the NCL. “Our October 2025 tournament will be another major step in that journey, bringing together world-class talent, a short and fast format, and further igniting the passion for cricket in North America. The NCL isn’t just hosting a tournament—we’re shaping the future of the sport in the U.S. and setting the stage for LA28.”

NCL October 2025 Tournament: What to Expect

The upcoming October 2025 tournament will be featuring:

World-Class Talent – A mix of cricketing icons and rising stars, with legends like Sachin Tendulkar, Sunil Gavaskar, and Wasim Akram serving as mentors and ambassadors.
Themed Nights & Entertainment – Live Bollywood performances, interactive fan experiences, and a fusion of sports and culture that makes the NCL unique.
Sixty Strikes Format – A fast-paced, high-energy version of the game designed for modern audiences and new cricket fans in the U.S.
Sustainability Commitment – The NCL’s pledge to become carbon neutral by 2030, with eco-friendly initiatives in partnership with SEE Holdings.
Global Reach – The tournament is expected to draw thousands of fans in person and millions worldwide through major broadcast partnerships.

Cricket’s U.S. Evolution is Here

As cricket gears up for LA28, the National Cricket League is ensuring that the U.S. isn’t just a participant but a major player in the sport’s global future. With a strategic focus on growth, community engagement, and talent development, the NCL is turning cricket into an American sports staple.

For those looking to witness the rise of cricket firsthand, stay updated on ticket sales and exclusive content by visiting NCLCricket.com and following the league on social media @NCLCricket.

🏏 The countdown to October 2025—and LA28—starts now.