Cricket’s Rapid Rise in the USA: From Backyard to Broadway
New York City, September 16 – It’s undeniable that cricket is capturing the hearts and minds of Americans, as evidenced by the sold-out jerseys and burgeoning Broadway buzz around the sport. The USA’s historic victory over Pakistan has sparked a frenzy, with the match even making it onto Google’s top 20 search trends for the day, sandwiched between National Donut Day and Oklahoma softball.
Eisenhower Park’s Off-Broadway World Cup
At Eisenhower Park, the off-Broadway World Cup continued, with Canada clinching a 12-run win over Ireland in another entertaining underdog triumph. While the crowd of 5,000 may have seemed small, the event’s reach extended far beyond the stands, with the game resonating across the diverse communities of New York.
The pitches, which had previously caused some concerns, underwent emergency treatment and saw marked improvements. The surface, shaved and heavily rolled, provided a more balanced playing field, allowing Canada to become the first team to score over 100 runs in a competitive match at the venue.
“The match was a testament to the growing popularity of cricket, from the backyard to the club level, and even the fantasy realm.”
Nicholas Kirton, a Barbados-born Canadian, showcased his talent with a blistering 49-run innings, while Ireland’s George Dockrell and Mark Adair nearly staged a comeback with a 62-run partnership.
As the World Cup continues, the buzz around cricket in the USA shows no signs of slowing down. With the sport’s intricacies becoming a talking point for the highest levels of government and the rumored Broadway production, cricket’s ascent is undeniable. The stage is set for cricket to cement its place in the American sports landscape, captivating fans from the beach to the backyard and beyond.
🔗 Source