By Dr. Basil Springer
News Americas, NEW YORK, NY, Mon. June 24, 2024: From the mid-late 1970s to the early 1990s, the West Indies Cricket team was the strongest team in the world in both red-ball and white-ball. However, this dominance has was not sustained. At times, our performances have trended towards the depths of despair for fans. With the advent of the cricket in the US, this performance may be impacted further.
This fluctuating performance can be due to several factors: financial investment, marketing approaches, infrastructure, pitch curators, operating logistics and coaching systems. All of these factors need improvements. The growth of the Gentleman’s game in the United States presents opportunities and challenges for the sustainability and resilience of West Indies cricket. I have been closely monitoring this development. It has the potential to significantly reshape the cricketing and socioeconomic landscape in our region.
Cricket Growth in the US
The United States, with its vast population and diverse immigrant communities, represents an untapped market for this game. The sport’s increasing popularity there, driven by the success of Major League Cricket (MLC), can substantially boost its global profile. This burgeoning interest can positively impact West Indies cricket in several ways.
Firstly, the expansion of cricket in the U.S. (with the T20 Cricket World Cup) can increase financial investment in the sport. The commercial potential of the U.S. market is enormous. As cricket gains traction, we can expect more sponsorship deals, broadcast rights agreements, and merchandise sales. This influx of capital can benefit West Indies cricket. It will enhance collaborations and shared investments, facilities, coaching contracts and player development programs.
Secondly, the growth of cricket in the U.S. can provide West Indies players more opportunities to compete at a higher level. Establishing a professional league like MLC can serve as an additional platform for our players to showcase their talents and gain valuable experience. This exposure can help bridge the gap between domestic and international cricket. It will foster a new generation of West Indies cricketers better equipped to compete on the world stage.
Challenges for West Indies Cricket
The rise of cricket in the U.S. could lead to a talent drain, with young Caribbean cricketers potentially being lured by the financial incentives and lifestyle offered in the United States. This could weaken the talent pool available for West Indies cricket if not managed carefully.
Read about Caribbean Heritage Players in US Squad (newsamericasnow.com).
Moreover, the West Indies Cricket Board (WICB) must proactively engage with U.S. cricket authorities to ensure mutual benefits. They should develop & nurture Strategic partnerships, exchange programs, and joint ventures. This will help both regions flourish without one overshadowing the other.
EDITOR’S NOTE: Dr. Basil Springer GCM is a Change-Engine Consultant. His email address is basilgf@marketplaceexcellence.com. His columns may be found at www.nothingbeatsbusiness.com/basil-springer-column and on www.facebook.com/basilgf
