The International Cricket Council Suspends USA Cricket Over Governance Failures
The International Cricket Council Suspends USAC Over Governance Failures
Men’s team to continue competing despite board’s suspension
The International Cricket Council (ICC) has suspended USA Cricket (USAC) with immediate effect, citing repeated breaches of membership obligations and long-standing governance issues. The move comes after months of warnings and failed attempts at reform, marking a major setback for cricket in one of the sport’s most promising emerging markets.
Despite the suspension, the USA men’s team will still take part in the upcoming T20 World Cup in India and Sri Lanka, with their management and administration now temporarily overseen by the ICC and its designated representatives.
In its official statement, the ICC said the decision was based on USAC’s “failure to implement a functional governance structure, lack of progress toward achieving National Governing Body status with the United States Olympic and Paralympic Committee (USOPC), and significant actions that have caused reputational damage to cricket in the United States and around the world.”
The suspension follows a July ultimatum that gave USAC three months to hold “free and fair” elections and implement reforms. Instead, the situation worsened after USAC abruptly terminated its 50-year commercial agreement with American Cricket Enterprises (ACE).
The 2019 deal, once hailed as a cornerstone for U.S. cricket’s growth, promised funding for national teams, construction of six stadiums, and the launch of professional leagues. While it produced highlights like co-hosting the 2024 T20 World Cup and winning the ICC Associate Team of the Year award, relations collapsed over accusations of unpaid dues, failed infrastructure, and governance interference.
ACE rejected USAC’s claims, countering that the board had misrepresented the terms.
Associate Cricket Enterprises (ACE) has issued a formal response to USA Cricket following its September 18 statement, alleging that it contains “multiple false and misleading claims” related to the termination of their commercial agreement and the ongoing legal proceedings.
According to ACE, the court has ordered an expedited hearing on its motion for a preliminary injunction during the week of September 29, 2025. The court reportedly acknowledged that ACE’s motion “identifies time-sensitive matters appropriate for prompt judicial resolution.”
The fallout ultimately deepened the ICC’s concerns, leading to the current suspension.
To restore its membership, USAC must now work under the guidance of an ICC-appointed Normalisation Committee, which will set strict conditions including governance reforms, operational restructuring, and regaining credibility within the wider cricket ecosystem. The committee will oversee progress and provide consultative support to ensure compliance.
The ICC stressed that its decision is intended to protect players, maintain the sport’s momentum in the U.S., and safeguard cricket’s long-term prospects, including its push for inclusion in future Olympic Games.
