Web Desk: The International Cricket Council (ICC) Board has approved a series of strategic measures aimed at accelerating cricket’s global growth, enhancing the women’s game, and reinforcing long-term development strategies.
Women’s Cricket Expansion
The ICC reiterated its commitment to women’s cricket, celebrating the success of the 2025 Women’s Cricket World Cup in India. The tournament drew nearly 300,000 spectators in stadiums—setting a new attendance record for any women’s cricket event and reached nearly 500 million viewers on screens in India alone. Building on this success, the Board agreed to expand the next edition to 10 teams, up from eight in 2025, to provide greater opportunities for emerging cricket nations.
Cricket in the Olympics and Multi-Sport Events
The Board reviewed its engagement with the International Olympic Committee and plans for the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games. Cricket will feature in both the men’s and women’s T20 events, with six teams per gender competing in 28 matches.
In addition, the ICC highlighted cricket’s inclusion in upcoming regional multi-sport competitions:
- Asian Games 2026 – Aichi–Nagoya, Japan
- African Games 2027 – Cairo, Egypt
- PanAm Games 2027 – Lima, Peru, marking cricket’s debut
These events are intended to boost participation opportunities for associate nations and deepen cricket’s global footprint.
Digital Growth and Innovation
The ICC Board approved issuing an Invitation to Tender for video gaming rights, inviting global partners to collaborate on creating interactive digital experiences for fans. This initiative forms part of a broader push to expand the sport’s digital and entertainment presence.
The Board also endorsed a data consolidation project to explore new commercial and innovation opportunities. By leveraging data clusters and AI-powered analytics, the ICC aims to enhance fan engagement, optimize commercial streams, and provide member nations with deeper insights into their cricket ecosystems.
Funding and Development Support
Demonstrating its commitment to equitable growth, the ICC approved a nearly 10% increase in funding for Associate Members in 2026. The additional support will allow these countries to invest in domestic programs, high-performance structures, and cricket development initiatives.
The Board also received an update on ‘Project USA’, launched after the suspension of USA Cricket. The initiative focuses on safeguarding the commercial and developmental interests of US players while preparing for cricket’s inclusion in LA 2028 and improving performance pathways through ICC events.
Leadership Appointments
In addition, the ICC ratified new appointments to the Women’s Cricket Committee, including Ashley De Silva, Mithali Raj, Amol Muzumdar, Ben Sawyer, Charlotte Edwards, and Sala Stella Siale-Vaea. These appointments aim to strengthen governance and strategic oversight of women’s cricket globally.
The ICC Board’s decisions reflect a commitment to expanding cricket’s reach, increasing participation, and enhancing the fan experience both on and off the field.
