ICC suspends USA Cricket's membership effective immediately over obligation breach
In an unprecedented move, the International Cricket Council (ICC) suspended USA Cricket on September 23 citing repeated and continued breaches of membership obligations.
This marks a critical juncture for cricket in America, just three years before Los Angeles hosts the 2028 Olympics, where cricket is about to make its return as an Olympic sport.
Allegations against USA Cricket
The ICC’s charge sheet highlights three core lapses: the failure to establish an effective governance system, the absence of progress in securing recognition from the United States Olympic and Paralympic Committee (USOPC) as cricket’s National Governing Body, and conduct that harmed the sport’s reputation both within the US and globally. The suspension was neither sudden nor unexpected.
In July 2024, the ICC had placed USA Cricket “on notice” for a year to rectify its non-compliance with membership standards. With problems persisting, suspension became unavoidable at the ICC’s 2025 Annual General Meeting.
ICC rules and constitutional obligations
Under ICC membership norms, national boards are required to demonstrate sound governance, adherence to ICC regulations, and—crucial in the US case—substantial progress on the Olympic pathway through USOPC recognition.
Notably, USA Cricket’s own constitution obligates it to pursue and maintain USOPC recognition as an official National Governing Body, while adhering to the provisions of the US Sports Act that regulate NGBs.
- PTC NEWS
