By Zainab Shafiq 
The ICC has put USA Cricket on notice to comply with membership rules following its role as co-host of the T20 World Cup. Both USA Cricket and Cricket Chile have been handed a 12-month ultimatum to sort out non-compliance cited by the ICC, which refers to failures in their governance and administrative structures.
USA Cricket on notice – What does it mean?
It is very clear from this decision that the ICC will be firm in having each and every organization as a member abide by proper standards of governance. There have been continuing issues with the administrative structure of USA Cricket ever since its former governing body, the USA Cricket Association, was expelled in 2017.
The latest problems revealed were only highlighted during the recent T20 World Cup matches held in New York, Dallas, and Florida, most notably with regard to the playing conditions. Specifically, the New York wicket, which was constructed in Florida and “dropped in” prior to the event, has come under severe criticism for its uneven bounce and unpredictability, which has led to low-scoring games.
One of the major themes at the ICC conference in Colombo was “capitalising on the Olympic opportunity.” The Olympics scheduled for 2028 in Los Angeles will see the return of cricket in T20 format. The ICC is focused on using such a global stage for further growth and is, therefore, bringing to fore the need for robust governance structures within all members. This was further underlined by the ICC announcement of increasing the teams for the Women’s T20 World Cup from 12 to 16 by 2030 to bring parity between men’s and women’s cricket.
The ICC’s review of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024 will be integral in identifying areas for improvement. The council’s decision to scrutinize USA Cricket comes amidst broader concerns about the board’s governance. The ICC aims to ensure that all members maintain appropriate administrative structures to strengthen global cricket governance.
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