ICC Threatens Suspension of USA Cricket Over Governance Crisis

BIRMINGHAM: The International Cricket Council (ICC) is on the verge of taking action against USA Cricket (USAC) as the deadline for its 12-month governance notice period nears next month.

The International Cricket Council (ICC) is the global governing body of cricket (Photo Credit: Reuters)

Sources indicate that the ICC is contemplating suspending the national governing body unless significant leadership changes are implemented before the ICC’s Annual Conference in July.

USAC was formally put on notice in July 2024, when the ICC established a normalization committee to oversee compliance and reforms. At that time, the ICC cited the board’s lack of a suitable governance and administrative structure. However, sources familiar with recent discussions reveal that little progress has been made since then.

An ICC delegation recently visited Los Angeles to meet with the U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Committee (USOPC). These discussions, involving members of the normalization committee and senior USAC representatives, reportedly reinforced concerns about the ongoing dysfunction and internal disputes within USAC.

One official directly involved described the situation as "unsustainable," noting that despite repeated warnings and external oversight, "very little has changed."

"The ICC’s position is clear: effective governance is non-negotiable, especially ahead of cricket’s return to the Olympics at LA 2028," the official stated.

During the visit, ICC representatives reportedly urged members of the current board, led by Chair Venu Pisike, to voluntarily resign. While some directors are said to be open to resigning, others remain resistant. A board member mentioned that no formal decisions have been made and that the group is awaiting documentation from the ICC before determining the next steps.

ICC officials countered that characterization, stating that the Los Angeles discussions were informal and not subject to official minutes. "This is not a bureaucratic technicality," said one person close to the talks. "This is about whether the US cricket community is governed competently and transparently."

Unmukt Chand's journey in American cricket.

Sources say that a small number of directors remain defiant. However, several resignations are expected in the coming weeks in an effort to preempt formal sanctions. Suspension by the ICC would effectively isolate USAC from global cricket structures, impacting its ability to receive funding, host international matches, or participate in development programs.

While the ICC has not issued a public statement on the matter, a resolution—voluntary or otherwise—appears imminent as the July deadline approaches.