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The T20 World Cup 2024 marked a significant milestone as it was the first ICC tournament hosted in the United States of America (USA). Matches were played in key locations such as New York, Texas, and Florida, providing a unique opportunity to assess the potential of cricket’s growth in this untapped market.
The matches in the USA leg drew considerable crowds, showcasing the growing interest in cricket in the United States. The tournament’s success was highlighted by packed stadiums, high TV viewership, and vibrant fan engagement both in the stands and on social media.
On-field Action and Pitch Performance
The pitches in New York were notably bowler-friendly, leading to several low-scoring matches. For instance, the clash between India and Pakistan saw India scoring just 119 runs, a total they successfully defended by limiting Pakistan to 113/7. Meanwhile, in another match, South Africa chased Sri Lanka’s 77-run target in the 17th over.
However, the most memorable match in the USA leg was the match between the hosts and Pakistan. One of the most notable matches was USA’s victory over Pakistan in a Super Over. Pakistan scored 159-7, but the USA matched the total as Haris Rauf conceded 14 runs in the last over, leading to a dramatic Super Over.
The USA set Pakistan to chase 19 runs in the Super Over, however, Saurabh Netravalkar bowled a brilliant over to defend the total and lead his team to a famous victory.
The host country managed to qualify for the Super Eight stage in their first appearance, which also helped generate interest among the local audience for the cricket.
Audience Reception and Engagement
The USA leg of the T20 World Cup saw impressive attendance and engagement, where the matches saw an average attendance of around 20,000 fans, with several games being sold out. This demonstrated a strong local and expatriate interest in cricket.
The match between arch-rivals India and Pakistan lived up to its billing as a high-octane encounter, drawing a full house in New York, with fans from both countries creating a vibrant and electric atmosphere.
The revenue generated from ticket sales for this match alone set new records, highlighting the commercial potential of hosting such marquee fixtures in the USA.
Overall, the tournament achieved record-breaking viewership numbers for cricket in the US, particularly on digital platforms, indicating a growing interest in the sport among the American audience
Impact on Cricket Growth in the USA
The successful execution of the T20 World Cup in the USA is expected to have a lasting impact on the growth of cricket in the country. The tournament has not only introduced cricket to a wider audience but also demonstrated that there is a viable market for the sport in the USA.
The visibility of international cricket is expected to inspire a new generation of American cricketers. Local cricket leagues and academies have reported increased interest and participation post-tournament, suggesting a positive trend for the sport’s development at the grassroots level.
Financial Gains and Future Prospects
Financially, the tournament has been a windfall. With high ticket sales, increased merchandise purchases, and lucrative broadcasting deals, the USA leg has set a strong precedent for future cricket events in the country.
The ICC and local organizers will likely consider the USA as a regular venue for international cricket, further integrating the sport into the American sports landscape.
In conclusion, the T20 World Cup 2024 in the USA has been a resounding success, paving the way for cricket’s expansion into new territories. The combination of competitive cricket, enthusiastic crowds, and significant financial returns bodes well for the future of the sport in the United States.
As cricket continues to globalize, the successful execution and positive reception of this tournament in the USA could mark the beginning of a new era for the sport, expanding its reach and appeal in one of the world’s largest sports markets.
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