The National Cricket League (NCL) in the United States has appointed Haroon Lorgat, former CEO of the International Cricket Council (ICC), as its commissioner with the goal of expanding cricket’s popularity in America.
Lorgat, a former first-class cricketer, held the role of ICC CEO from 2008 to 2012, during which he oversaw three World Cups and played a crucial part in implementing the Decision Review System (DRS), enhancing anti-corruption efforts, and promoting cricket in associate nations. In a statement, Lorgat expressed his excitement for his new role, stating that cricket has the ability to inspire new players and engage fans across the United States.
Lorgat highlighted that the NCL is introducing fresh ideas, with a focus on sustainability and global accessibility, which he believes will help shape the future of American sports.
Under his guidance, the NCL will launch its inaugural Sixty Strikes Tournament, a 60-ball format approved by the ICC. This tournament, running from October 4 to 14 at the University of Dallas, marks the first national sports league collaboration with a university, with an estimated daily audience of around 4,000 attendees.
NCL chairman Arun Agarwal highlighted the league’s growing influence in the global cricket scene, praising Lorgat’s leadership and the ICC’s endorsement. Agarwal also noted the league’s partnership with SEE Holdings, a sustainability-focused company based in Dubai, as a crucial step in revolutionising cricket in America and setting new global standards for the sport.
The league will feature some of the world’s top cricket talents, including Shahid Afridi, Suresh Raina, Shakib Al Hasan, Robin Uthappa, and Chris Lynn. Additionally, cricket legends such as Wasim Akram, Sir Vivian Richards, Zaheer Abbas, and Sanath Jayasuriya will participate as mentors and coaches.
With such a star-studded lineup and ambitious plans, the National Cricket League is poised to significantly impact the growth of cricket in the United States.