Why USA Cricket eligible for ICC events despite being suspended by world body

The International Cricket Council (ICC) announced the immediate suspension of USA Cricket’s membership, citing repeated breaches of its obligations as a member. The ICC said the decision followed a 'thorough review of affairs and extensive engagement with key stakeholders over the past year'. Despite the suspension, the ICC confirmed that USA’s national teams can continue participating in ICC events and preparing for the Los Angeles 2028 Olympics.

Management and administration of the national teams will temporarily be overseen by the ICC or its designated representatives to ensure support for players and continuity of high-performance programs.

"The decision, taken by the ICC Board during its meeting earlier, was based on USA Cricket’s repeated and continued breaches of its obligations as an ICC Member under the ICC’s Constitution," the ICC said in a media statement.


The ICC highlighted several areas of concern, including USA Cricket’s failure to implement a functional governance structure, lack of progress toward National Governing Body status with the United States Olympic and Paralympic Committee (USOPC), and actions that have caused reputational damage to cricket both in the US and globally. The governing body said the move is intended to protect the 'long-term interests of the game' while keeping athletes unaffected.

A Normalisation Committee, supported by the ICC, will outline the steps required to lift the suspension, including demonstrable improvements in governance, operations, and overall compliance. The committee will also monitor progress and provide consultative support.

"The ICC remains committed to supporting the growth of cricket in the United States, protect the sporting ecosystem and its constituents, namely the athletes and bolstering its march towards a more significant role on the global stage." the statement further read.

USA Cricket, which co-hosted last year’s T20 World Cup in the Americas, was placed on notice at the ICC’s 2024 annual general meeting for non-compliance with membership criteria and given 12 months to address the issues.