The International Cricket Council (ICC) has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting USA national team cricketers and ensuring their uninterrupted preparation for major global tournaments, despite the ongoing financial and governance crisis within USA Cricket.
In an official statement, the ICC confirmed that the issues surrounding USA Cricket will not be allowed to affect the country’s participation in key events such as the ICC Men’s Under-19 World Cup 2026, the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, and cricket’s return to the Olympic Games at Los Angeles 2028.
USA Cricket Under Suspension
USA Cricket recently entered Chapter 11 bankruptcy proceedings, describing the move as part of a structural reorganisation. This development came after the ICC suspended the governing body in September for serious breaches of membership criteria, citing governance and financial instability.
The ICC made it clear that while administrative failures led to the suspension, national team players must not suffer due to off-field issues.
ICC Ready to Run High-Performance Programme
To safeguard players, the ICC has expressed its readiness to fund and, if necessary, directly operate the USA High-Performance Programme during the suspension period. This includes honouring player contracts and ensuring that salaries of players and high-performance staff are paid on time.
The ICC had earlier proposed financial assistance in the form of a loan under the bankruptcy process, which would have covered player payments. However, that offer was not accepted by USA Cricket. The global body is now exploring options to make payments directly to players where appropriate.
Focus on LA 2028 Olympics
With cricket set to return to the Olympic Games in Los Angeles in 2028, the ICC has described the USA programme as a strategic priority. It is working closely with the United States Olympic & Paralympic Committee (USOPC) to establish a stable, long-term high-performance structure.
This collaboration includes centralised training camps, enhanced coaching and sports science support, and a strengthened competition pathway for both men’s and women’s teams.
Domestic Cricket Sanctioning Handled by ICC
As a consequence of the suspension, USA Cricket has lost its authority to sanction domestic cricket events in the country. For the duration of the suspension, the ICC will oversee the approval and regulation of domestic matches and tournaments in the USA.
The ICC’s Normalisation Committee will continue to work toward restoring credible governance and stabilising cricket administration in the country.
An ICC spokesperson emphasised that player welfare remains the top priority, stating that administrative turmoil will not be allowed to derail the careers or preparation of USA’s international cricketers.
