The T20 World Cup is set to begin with an exciting clash between the US and Canada in Dallas on June 1, 2024. As the largest event in cricket’s shortest format, this tournament marks the first time the US will co-host, alongside Caribbean nations, in an effort to increase cricket’s popularity in the American market.
A total of 45 matches will be played across various Caribbean islands, with the US hosting 16 matches at three venues – Dallas, New York, and Broward County in Florida. The US has been given prominent fixtures, including the highly anticipated India-Pakistan showdown in New York on June 9.
While the US and Canada may not be among the top cricketing nations, ranked below the 12 Full Members who receive more privileges and resources from the International Cricket Council (ICC), they share the oldest cricket rivalry in the world. The first recorded international cricket match took place between the two countries in September 1844 at St George’s Cricket Club in Manhattan, New York. This historic Auty Cup match had such a profound impact that Canada’s first Prime Minister, John A. Macdonald, officially declared cricket as the nation’s official sport in 1867.
Both the US and Canada will be making their debut appearances at the T20 World Cup, which features 20 teams vying for the prestigious trophy. While Canada has some experience playing in the 50-over World Cup, having participated four times with their last outing in 2007, the US has never qualified for either World Cup and is eager to make an impact on home soil.
ICC chief Geoff Allardice recognizes the US as a new frontier for cricket and believes that hosting a major ICC event for the first time will contribute to the sport’s growth in the world’s largest sports market. As we enter a new frontier, with the USA hosting a major ICC event for the first time…it allows us to make a statement in the world’s biggest sports market, Allardice remarked.
The T20 World Cup promises to be a thrilling tournament, highlighting the growing interest and potential for cricket in the US. Fans can anticipate high-quality cricket and intense rivalries as teams from around the world compete for glory. The clash between the US and Canada in Dallas will serve as a remarkable beginning to this prestigious event.
