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Collegiate Cricket League launched, will bring cricket to US campuses
The CCL is partnering with the NCL, which boasts connections to international cricket legends like Sachin Tendulkar, Sir Vivian Richards, and Wasim Akram.
Stock image. / Pexels
The Collegiate Cricket League (CCL) has officially launched as the premier organization for collegiate cricket in the United States, aiming to make cricket a household name on American campuses.
Backed by USA Cricket and the National Cricket League (NCL), the CCL seeks to unite college cricket clubs, create opportunities for student-athletes, and build a pathway to professional cricket.
With cricket set to debut as an Olympic sport in 2028 and recognized as the world's second most popular sport, the CCL plans to revolutionize college sports. "The excitement surrounding cricket, combined with America's passion for college sports, creates a perfect synergy," said USA Cricket CEO Johnathan Atkeison. "The CCL will accelerate the growth of our sport."
The CCL is partnering with the NCL, which boasts connections to international cricket legends like Sachin Tendulkar, Sir Vivian Richards, and Wasim Akram. Arun Agarwal, chairman of the NCL, highlighted the league's transformative mission. "This is not just about playing the game—it’s about building a movement that connects student-athletes, universities, and global fans," he said.
The league will feature a modern, fast-paced 10-over (60-ball) format, with matches lasting 90 minutes. Haroon Lorgat, NCL Commissioner and former ICC CEO, emphasized its significance. "The CCL is a critical step in introducing cricket to a country ready to embrace it. With its innovative format, the CCL is uniquely equipped to grow the sport in the U.S."
The inaugural season begins in Spring 2025, featuring teams from top universities, including the University of Michigan, UCLA, and Georgetown University, among others. Matches will culminate in the CCL National Tournament, with a $50,000 prize and the coveted CCL Trophy. "Being part of the CCL is about pioneering a movement," said Ashrav Paul and Siddharth Myadam, presidents of Georgetown Cricket Club.
Games will be broadcast globally through NCL's partners, reaching billions of fans and boosting the visibility of participating universities. "Our vision is to see cricket stadiums on every campus, scholarships for student-athletes, and cricket clubs evolving into varsity teams," said Steven M. Smith, CCL's Executive Director.
Cricket's roots in the U.S. date back to 1864, when the first organized collegiate match was played. While it lost prominence over the past century, the CCL aims to reclaim cricket's place with a modern approach. "This league will provide the foundation for lasting success," Lorgat added.
By uniting college cricket clubs, securing sponsorships, and leveraging broadcast reach, the CCL aspires to establish cricket as a varsity sport, rivaling NCAA football and basketball in global exposure.
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