ISLAMABAD: The International Cricket Council (ICC) has suspended USA Cricket’s membership with immediate effect, citing repeated governance failures and reputational damage to the sport.

The decision was made during the ICC Board’s recent meeting, following a year-long review and engagement with stakeholders. The global governing body said USA Cricket had failed to implement a functional governance structure and made little progress towards recognition as a National Governing Body by the United States Olympic and Paralympic Committee (USOPC).

The ICC also said USA Cricket had breached its obligations under the ICC Constitution and undertaken actions that harmed the image of the sport both in the US and globally.

The suspension comes just months after USA Cricket co-hosted the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup in 2024 alongside the West Indies — the first time the tournament was staged in the United States. The US team recorded a historic group-stage victory over Pakistan during the tournament, boosting the sport’s visibility in the country.

Despite the suspension, the ICC said US national teams will remain eligible to compete in ICC events, including preparations for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympic Games.

The ICC and its appointed representatives will temporarily oversee team management and operations to ensure continuity and support for athletes.

An ICC Normalization Committee will establish a roadmap for USA Cricket to regain its membership. Required steps will include specific changes to governance, operations, and compliance with ICC standards. The committee will also monitor progress and provide guidance.

USA Cricket was placed “on notice” at the ICC’s 2024 Annual General Meeting and given 12 months to address non-compliance issues. In July, the board opted against immediate suspension based on commitments made by USA Cricket. However, further violations prompted the latest action.

The ICC said the suspension is a necessary measure to protect the long-term interests of the sport, while reaffirming its support for cricket’s development in the United States.

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ICC suspends USA Cricket’s membership over governance failures