What is Cricket Popularity in USA Like?
By
Amelia Walker
Senior Content Writer Updated: 06 December 2023
Amelia Walker Senior Content Writer
Amelia Walker is a Senior Content Writer at Betting.US. She has a law degree and deep knowledge of the gambling laws in the United States. Her mission is to keep players informed about responsible gambling, while her passion for sports helps her create useful guides. Amelia has over a decade of experience in betting, which has positioned her as a trusted voice among our readers.
Cricket Popularity in USA
- USA Cricket Popularity
- How Popular Is Cricket in the USA?
- Cricket’s American Origins
- Barriers to Cricket’s Growth
- Cricket vs. Baseball Showdown
- Top USA Cricket Leagues
- The Future of Cricket in the USA
- Frequently Asked Questions
Cricket, a sport deeply ingrained in the culture of countries like India, England, and Australia, has been slowly growing in popularity in the USA. But the game has a long way to go – popularity-wise – and just how deeply has this game rooted itself on American soil? Is it set to become as popular as basketball or baseball? Let’s look at the world of cricket in America, exploring its origins, challenges, and current state.
USA Cricket Popularity
In the American sports landscape, cricket continues to operate, pretty much, as a niche sport. However, while it hasn’t reached the heights of football, basketball, or baseball, it has seen a steady increase in popularity, especially in the last two decades. A surge of immigrants from cricket-loving countries has contributed to this growth, bringing along their passion for the sport.
This has led to the formation of local leagues and even international matches being played on American soil. Although cricket in the USA is still in its infant phase, there’s definite momentum growing behind the sport – and in today’s blog, we’re going to look at this, and answer: how popular is cricket in the USA and where is cricket popular in the United States?
How Popular Is Cricket in the USA?
How popular is cricket in the USA? Well, cricket’s popularity in the USA can’t be compared to its fanatical following in countries like India or England. However, it’s gaining traction. A significant push comes from immigrants who bring their love for the game with them. Cities with diverse populations, such as New York and Los Angeles, have become hubs for cricket enthusiasts. Local clubs and leagues are popping up, offering Americans a taste of this international sport.
Major broadcasters have also recognized cricket’s potential. In recent years, more international matches, especially the high-octane T20 games, have been broadcast in the USA. This exposure introduces the game to a broader audience, piquing their interest.
The USA has also started participating more prominently in international cricket events, indicating a growing institutional interest in the sport. Schools and universities are slowly introducing cricket to their sports programs, providing a foundation for its future growth. In essence, while cricket isn’t a mainstream sport in America yet, the seeds have been sown for its potential growth!
Cricket’s American Origins
Cricket’s history in the USA is more extensive than many realize. The sport was introduced by British immigrants in the 18th century, and by the mid-1800s, cricket clubs dotted the East Coast. Philadelphia became a cricket hotspot, producing competitive teams that even toured England.
However, as baseball began its ascent in the late 19th century, cricket’s popularity started to fade. Baseball’s simpler rules and shorter game duration resonated more with the American audience. The two sports, which share common ancestors, began to go their own ways, both in terms of rules and popularity.
World wars also played a part in affecting the popularity of cricket in the USA. During the wars, the focus of the entire nation shifted – and, by the mid-20th century, cricket was nowhere near as popular as it once was. It was only in the late 20th century, with the influx of immigrants from cricket-loving nations, that the sport saw a revival in the USA.
Today, USA cricket popularity continues to grow – but there’s still a long way before the game is as popular as other American sports. However, if you’re based in the US and want to bet on cricket matches you will be happy to learn there are tons of great sportsbook options, as shown here on our site!
Barriers to Cricket’s Growth
Despite the positive state of cricket in the US, the sport continues to face several challenges in the country. The biggest problem it faces is the overshadowing popularity of sports like football, baseball, and basketball. These sports are deeply embedded in American culture, making it hard for cricket to find its unique space.
Infrastructure is another challenge. While there are numerous baseball fields, there’s a lack of dedicated cricket grounds. This forces enthusiasts to adapt existing fields, which isn’t ideal for professional matches, and isn’t allowed in many established cricketing leagues around the world.
What’s more, for newcomers, the rules of cricket can be confusing. The game, especially when played in its traditional formats, can last for days, contrasting sharply with the fast-paced nature of most American sports.
Financial support and sponsorship are also limited. Without significant investment, it’s challenging to organize high-profile matches, develop infrastructure, or run extensive training programs. Finally, there’s a distinct lack of cricket in schools and universities – and this means most youngsters don’t get early exposure to the game, limiting its grassroots development.
In order to really thrive – and grow in popularity – cricket needs to overcome these barriers and carve out its niche in the American sports world. It’s got a long way to go, but it’s possible – as we’ve seen in the past.
Cricket vs. Baseball Showdown
Cricket and baseball, two bat-and-ball games, have a lot of differences, despite some clear similarities. Both sports have an international following, but their popularity varies a lot, depending on where in the world you are. While cricket is a household name in countries like India, England, and Australia, baseball is the sport of choice in the USA, Japan, and parts of Latin America. Let’s take a look at a detailed comparison of these two sports.
| Aspect | Cricket | Baseball |
|---|---|---|
| Objective | Score runs by hitting the ball and running between wickets | Score runs by hitting the ball and running between bases |
| Field shape | Oval with a rectangular pitch in the center | Four bases in a diamond shape plus an outfield |
| Team size | 11 players | 9 players |
| Game duration | Between 3 hours and 5 days | Approximately 3 hours |
| Innings | 1 or 2 per team, depending on the format | 9 innings per team |
Cricket’s primary objective is to score runs, either by running between the wickets or hitting boundaries (4s or 6s). In contrast, baseball players aim to hit the ball and complete runs by moving through four bases. The field shapes differ significantly too; cricket is played on a vast oval field with a central pitch, while baseball is played within a diamond-shaped infield.
Cricket matches can vary in duration, from three-hour T20 games to five-day Test matches. Baseball games, regardless of the league or format, typically last around three hours.
Although both sports involve batting, bowling (or pitching in baseball), and fielding, their techniques, strategies, and rules differ. For instance, in cricket, bowlers deliver the ball with a straight arm, allowing it to bounce before reaching the batsman. In contrast, baseball pitchers throw the ball directly to the batter, using a variety of pitches to deceive and strike out the opponent.
Top USA Cricket Leagues
Growing cricket popularity in the USA has led to the establishment of various leagues to foster talent and entertain fans. The most notable is Major League Cricket (MLC), aiming to be a US version of the popular T20 tournaments, and it’s actually done quite well, drawing attention both domestically and internationally. This league features top-tier talent, including players with international experience.
Apart from MLC, several regional leagues and tournaments cater to local players. The American Cricket Federation (ACF) oversees many of these leagues, ensuring the rules remain consistent throughout, and helping to promote it at a grassroots level.
University cricket is also on the rise, with the American College Cricket (ACC) playing a key role. ACC tournaments see players now competing from across the country, providing a platform for young talent to come forward and shine.
The Future of Cricket in the USA
Despite a lot of challenges, the future of cricket in the USA actually looks pretty promising. With the foundation laid by local leagues and the growing interest at university level, the sport could continue on its upward trajectory – providing it continues to be promoted at a grassroots level.
Efforts are now underway to integrate cricket into school curriculums, and the USA’s participation in international tournaments and the ambition to qualify for the ICC Cricket World Cup is helping to bring the sport to more American homes than ever before.
There’s still a long way to go – and the sport needs proper investment in the US to thrive – but it’s on the right path, and we hope to see this continue in the future.
