Game-Changer: ICC Unveils Plans for 34,000-Seat Cricket Stadium on Long Island for T20 World Cup Debut in the U.S.
International Cricket Council Unveils Plans for Innovative 34,000-Seat Cricket Stadium on Long Island
The International Cricket Council (ICC) and Nassau County officials have revealed ambitious plans for a temporary cricket stadium on Long Island, set to host select matches in this year’s T20 Cricket World Cup. Marking the first time the tournament graces the U.S., the initiative aims to elevate the sport’s popularity stateside.
Situated in Nassau County’s Eisenhower Park, approximately 30 miles east of Manhattan, the modular stadium is currently under construction and is expected to be completed within three months, according to the ICC. Repurposing grandstands previously used for the Formula 1 Las Vegas Grand Prix, the Nassau County International Cricket Stadium will boast VIP and hospitality suites, a party deck, cabanas, a fan zone, and diverse food and drink outlets.
Constructed by Populous, the renowned architectural firm behind iconic venues like Yankee Stadium, CitiField, Narendra Modi cricket stadium in Ahmedabad, and Tottenham Hotspur soccer stadium in London, the Nassau County stadium aims to surpass existing cricket stadiums in the sport’s country of origin, the United Kingdom.
New York is slated to host eight matches during the tournament, including the highly anticipated clash between rivals India and Pakistan on June 9. Additional U.S. venues for the T20 World Cup include Central Broward Park and Broward County Stadium in Florida, along with the Grand Prairie Cricket Stadium in Texas.
Despite cricket historically lacking a significant following in the U.S., enthusiasts are optimistic about changing this narrative, especially with the introduction of the T20 Major League Cricket league last year. The T20 format, known for its shorter duration of around three hours per match, is believed to be more appealing to American audiences. With the game gaining momentum, particularly fueled by South Asian immigrants, cricket’s presence in the U.S. is poised for growth.
