Seattle Orcas CEO Envisions Cricket’s Future in NCAA, Highlights MLC Goals
New Delhi: In a significant boost for cricket in the United States, Seattle Orcas CEO Hemant Dua has highlighted the impact of the USA’s recent victory over Pakistan in the 2024 T20 World Cup. This win marks a crucial step in growing the sport in a nation where cricket is still developing. Dua believes that this achievement has sparked interest in cricket and presents an opportunity for the sport to establish a stronger foothold in the American sports landscape.
The growth of cricket in the USA
Hemant Dua emphasized that cricket has seen gradual growth in the United States, primarily at an amateur level. He noted that the U.S. cricket board has faced numerous challenges, but recent investments from the International Cricket Council (ICC) signal a new era for the sport in the country. The success of the 2024 World Cup, particularly the USA’s victory over Pakistan, has not only generated excitement among fans but has also had a positive economic impact on cricket’s development in the region. Dua articulated that this win was a dream come true for many American cricket enthusiasts, further solidifying the sport’s potential for growth.
Looking forward, Dua sees the Major League Cricket (MLC) entering its third season as a pivotal moment for further expansion. His primary goal is to integrate cricket into the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA), making it a mainstream sport. He indicated that cricket in the U.S. is currently dominated by South Asian communities and a few Commonwealth populations, which presents a challenge in reaching a broader audience. He believes that college sports are fundamental for the growth of any sport in the U.S., and aligning with NCAA standards is the next logical step for cricket’s mainstream acceptance.
Challenges and opportunities in collegiate cricket
Dua acknowledged the challenges involved in making cricket a collegiate sport, particularly the requirements set by Title IX, which mandates equal opportunities for women’s sports. He highlighted the importance of establishing a women’s cricket framework alongside men’s cricket to gain recognition and support. In his region, the Pacific Northwest, efforts are underway to encourage girls to participate in cricket, with various leagues forming for both U-19 and U-16 levels. While the boys’ cricket scene is growing, Dua noted that participation numbers are still low, pointing to the need for more grassroots initiatives.
The upcoming 2028 Los Angeles Olympics is another opportunity for cricket to gain visibility. Dua expressed optimism that by then, all six MLC franchises will have their own stadiums, which could significantly elevate the sport’s profile in the U.S. He believes that the Olympics will generate excitement and interest, allowing more people to become familiar with cricket. The establishment of dedicated facilities will also aid in attracting a wider audience and enhancing the overall cricketing infrastructure in the country.
Financial sustainability and media partnerships
Despite the current financial challenges faced by MLC franchises, Dua remains confident in the league’s long-term sustainability. He drew parallels with the Indian Premier League (IPL), noting that even established leagues experience initial losses before gaining financial stability through broadcasting deals. He emphasized that the future success of MLC hinges largely on securing lucrative media contracts. Currently, MLC matches are streamed on Willow and regional sports networks, with new partnerships, including a deal with Amazon for broadcasting Sunday night games, aimed at expanding viewership.
Dua understands that while these initial media arrangements may not yield immediate profits, increasing visibility is critical. He stated that the real test for MLC will come with the next broadcasting contract, which will determine the league’s trajectory. By tapping into the significant South Asian population in the U.S., particularly the affluent Indian community, Dua aims to build a sustainable fan base and increase cricket’s appeal across the nation.
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