By Daisy Atino

The Collegiate Cricket League (CCL) is making strides to bring the world’s second most beloved sport to U.S. college campuses, supported by USA Cricket and the National Cricket League (NCL).

The CCL announced today its official formation as the leading collegiate cricket organization in the United States. This 501(c) (3) entity aims to revolutionize college athletics by uniting cricket clubs across the nation, creating pathways for student-athletes and opening doors to professional opportunities. With cricket gaining Olympic status in 2028 and being a top favorite worldwide, the CCL is on a mission to make cricket a staple in American college culture.

Endorsed by USA Cricket, the official governing authority for cricket in the U.S., and partnered with the NCL—a league famous for its ties to cricket legends such as Sachin Tendulkar, Sir Vivian Richards, and Wasim Akram—the CCL is set for significant impact.

USA Cricket’s CEO, Johnathan Atkeison, stated in a press statement, “The thrill of college sports in America is unparalleled, and now, with cricket joining the fray, we resonate with a spectacular fusion. The establishment of CCL will undoubtedly bolster our sport’s visibility and growth.”

Arun Agarwal, Chairman of the NCL, expressed, “Cricket is unique in its ability to connect people and forge opportunities. The CCL embodies a transformative vision by embedding cricket into American campuses like never before. This movement is more than just playing; it’s about knitting a fabric that links student-athletes to colleges and global cricket fans.”

Commencing its inaugural season in Spring 2025, the league will bring top student cricket clubs from prestigious universities across North America, including renowned institutions like the University of Pennsylvania, University of Texas at Dallas, and UCLA. This array of teams will compete in a dual-conference structure culminating in the inaugural CCL National Tournament, boasting a remarkable $50,000 prize and the illustrious CCL Trophy.

“Joining the Collegiate Cricket League goes beyond simply representing Georgetown; it’s pioneering a transformative wave. We’re eager to see cricket finally receive the recognition it merits in the U.S. As founding members, we are excited about showcasing the unique contributions of cricket to college sports,” commented Ashrav Paul and Siddharth Myadam, Presidents of the Georgetown Cricket Club.

The roots of cricket in the United States stretch back nearly 320 years, with the first recorded collegiate match being played in 1864. Although enthusiasm for the sport has waned in favor of others over the decades, the CCL’s modern approach—introducing 10-over matches that last just 90 minutes—aims to rejuvenate interest. This format has captured the imagination of audiences worldwide and is now poised to resonate with American fans.

CCL matches will leverage broadcasting partnerships through the NCL, reaching billions globally and igniting new enthusiasm for college cricket while spotlighting participating universities.

NCL Commissioner Haroon Lorgat echoed the sentiment, stating, “The CCL is pivotal in introducing cricket to a ready audience in the U.S. With its inventive structure and emphasis on collegiate development, it heralds an unmatched opportunity for cricket’s expansion in America, laying a solid foundation for sustained success.”

Envisioned as a varsity sport in U.S. universities, the CCL’s unification of cricket clubs will not only attract sponsorships and funding but also enhance cricket programs, provide scholarships, and invest in cutting-edge facilities. This initiative positions cricket to rival the global prominence of NCAA sports like football and basketball.

Steven M. Smith, Executive Director of the CCL, stated, “Our dream is to have cricket stadiums on every campus, scholarships for aspiring athletes, and cricket clubs transforming into varsity teams. With cricket now recognized as an Olympic sport and its global popularity surging, universities have an unparalleled opportunity for international visibility.”