The assertion that the U.S. is sports-obsessed is a vast understatement. With a professional sports market valued at approximately $69 billion—more than double the combined size of Europe, the Middle East and Africa—sports dominate American culture. Yet, last year, amidst this fervor, a major sporting event with 2.5 billion followers went largely unnoticed: the T20 Cricket World Cup.

Hosted by the U.S. and the Caribbean in 2024, this marked a historic moment in American cricket as it welcomed the U.S. National Cricket Team, which entered the tournament as the host nation despite not qualifying through the usual competitive route.

Against the odds, the American team made headlines by defeating Pakistan, challenging cricket powerhouse India (the eventual champions), and triumphing over Canada to advance to the Super 8s. While they were ultimately eliminated, their journey was inspiring. A standout player, Saurabh Netravalkar, an Indian-origin software engineer from Oracle, took personal time off to contribute to this historic performance.

American Cricket’s Immigrant Heart

The burgeoning cricket scene in the U.S. is largely fueled by immigrants. The team consists of many South Asian players, primarily from India, who have pursued the American dream as students, H1-B visa holders, or mid-career professionals. In the 2024 tournament, this resilient group created a ‘Miracle on Ice’ moment for American cricket.

America has long been a destination for immigrants seeking opportunity. Many arrived through Ellis Island in New York, and this influx continues today. Interestingly, some cricket matches played during the tournament occurred in New York, in a temporary stadium that symbolizes the transient yet impactful immigrant experience.

Cricket, though a newcomer in American sports, offers immigrants more than entertainment; it mirrors their life journeys. This article explores parallels between the immigrant experience and cricket, providing lessons for an increasingly diverse global workforce.

Lesson 1: Standing Firm Against Adversity

As someone who has navigated life as an immigrant in four countries, I understand the value of resilience. Success hinges on the duration one remains at the ‘crease,’ much like the number of at-bats in baseball. It’s easy to feel defeated when faced with overwhelming odds. Immigrants encounter myriad challenges—professional, personal, social, and community-related. Yet, those who persevere take measured steps forward.

Cricket’s five-day format (known as tests) underscores endurance, reflecting the immigrant journey where each milestone signifies growth and the acquisition of new skills. The longer one persists through failures, the more successful their journey becomes.

Lesson 2: Mastering a Growth Mindset

Cricket requires players to adapt to nature’s whims, and its complex rules challenge even seasoned fans. Unlike baseball, where the ball is thrown directly at the hitter, cricket involves bouncing the ball near the batter’s area. Success in cricket often depends on leveraging playing conditions, much like immigrants must maximize their new environments.

Many immigrants face unfamiliar circumstances. I recall meetings in Thailand, Indonesia or China, where language barriers made participation difficult. Instead of succumbing to frustration, I adapted by noting key terms and consulting colleagues, allowing me to engage and contribute meaningfully.

Lesson 3: Embracing Risk-Taking

Cricket is evolving from a leisurely game into a dynamic spectacle filled with excitement. One prominent figure in this transformation is Surya Kumar Yadav, known as SKY 360, whose ability to hit the ball anywhere showcases the sport’s contemporary flair.

Innovation and risk-taking are crucial for success, whether in cricket or as an immigrant. Embracing failure as a learning opportunity is vital. Immigrants often find themselves in unfamiliar work cultures, which can breed self-doubt. Adaptability and a willingness to seize opportunities are essential. As Wayne Gretzky famously said, “You miss 100% of the shots you don’t take.”

Lesson 4: Leading With Heart

Cricket elicits unmatched passion, especially in South Asia. The sport transcends mere entertainment, serving as a symbol of national pride. For immigrants, the key takeaway is resilience. Those who thrive in new environments do so by maintaining an indomitable spirit in the face of challenges.

Success isn’t solely about personal achievements; it’s about integrity, purpose, and community contribution. These values are as important as any victory.

A Hero’s Journey

Saurabh Netravalkar’s exceptional performance against Pakistan in the 2024 World Cup has firmly established him as a hero in American cricket. Before the match, he passionately sang “The Star-Spangled Banner,” and during the game against India, he also honored his roots by singing the Indian national anthem. “Oh, absolutely! I’m an Indian, so I view it this way: ‘India is my janmabhoomi [birthplace], and this is my karmabhoomi [workplace]. I respect both.'”

His journey embodies the immigrant experience, highlighting the importance of honoring one’s origins while actively contributing to the community in which one now resides. In a world increasingly marked by isolationism, it is cultural exchanges and sports like cricket that provide us with a deeper understanding of what it means to be a global citizen.

Through these shared experiences, we can bridge divides and celebrate the rich tapestry of identities that shape our world.