US CRICKET
USA Cricket leadership is discussing challenges and commitment to the game, but leagues and courts tell a different story © Getty
USA Cricket initiated the weekend by releasing a detailed statement that blamed its commercial partner, American Cricket Enterprises (ACE), for years of tension and defended its decision to end the partnership. Titled “A Difficult Chapter for USA Cricket,” the statement portrayed the ICC’s suspension on September 23 as a tough yet temporary setback, framing the termination of ACE’s agreement as a moral stand.
However, the narrative was quickly countered. Board directors indicated the release lacked board approval, while league presidents voted to dismiss a close ally of chairman Venu Pisike. Additionally, a new court filing raised concerns about the timing of the federation’s Chapter 11 bankruptcy, suggesting it was filed to gain leverage just before a state court hearing.
The ICC’s position is clear. On September 23, the global governing body suspended USA Cricket due to ongoing non-compliance with membership standards, a decision that had been anticipated since the 2024 AGM. The ICC’s notice focused on the federation’s failures and did not reference ACE, confirming that players remain eligible for ICC events while governance issues are resolved.
USA Cricket maintained that ending its partnership with ACE was necessary to shield the sport from “commercial overreach.” The organization claimed the ICC’s suspension was perplexing; however, records indicate ongoing non-compliance long before the termination vote, undermining the assertion that the suspension was a direct response to ending the ACE agreement.
As internal dissent grows, several directors have called for the ICC’s Normalisation Committee to investigate USAC’s actions and restructure its board to safeguard players and competitions during this transition. Meanwhile, amidst all this turmoil, significant financial and logistical uncertainties loom over upcoming events and competitions, raising concerns about the federation’s management.
Ultimately, while USA Cricket leadership conveys a narrative of resilience and commitment to the sport, the reality is that leagues, board members, and court cases tell a contrasting story. The anti-Pisike faction is now organized and active, impacting the internal dynamics of the federation significantly.
© Cricbuzz
