Staff Reporter
Cricket, the world’s second-most popular sport, is quickly gaining traction in the United States, particularly in Texas, where the youth cricket scene is thriving. As the sport’s global fan base expands, U.S. schools are increasingly recognizing the appeal of cricket, thanks to a concerted effort by organizations like WCI Academy and the nonprofit Cricket for All.
One of the most promising developments is the growing inclusion of cricket in American school programs. Recently, three Independent School Districts (ISDs)—Round Rock, Leander, and Liberty Hill in Texas—announced that they would be offering cricket as part of their Off-Campus Physical Education (OCPE) credit programs.
This move is a significant step in making cricket more accessible to young people and integrating it into the educational system. Students enrolled in these districts can now participate in cricket training, giving them an opportunity to learn and develop their skills in the sport.
Ashish Shah, whose son, Soham Shah, participates in the Round Rock ISD Off-Campus PE program through WCI Cricket Academy, says, “This program has been invaluable, allowing Soham to earn PE credit for the sport he loves while balancing his time between academics and athletics.
It provides an incredible platform for the holistic development of students. We are thankful to both Round Rock ISD and WCI Academy for offering such a meaningful opportunity to our growing community.” This shift reflects a broader trend that’s been building in the U.S., driven by passionate advocates like Alok Singh, the founder of Cricket for All, a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting cricket across the country.
Singh, an elite Level-4 coach trained by Gary Kirsten—the World Cup and IPL winning coach—has been working tirelessly to expand youth cricket opportunities.
Singh’s efforts extend beyond simply creating awareness about the sport; he’s helping train physical education (PE) teachers across the nation, equipping them with the skills to coach cricket at the grassroots level.
“With cricket becoming a fixture in schools, we’re seeing youth engagement rise,” said Singh. “By training PE teachers, we’re not just growing players; we’re creating a sustainable ecosystem where cricket can flourish across the U.S.”
Texas, particularly, is emerging as a hub for youth cricket. The state’s vibrant sports culture, combined with a growing Indian-American and immigrant population that already has a deep affinity for cricket, makes it an ideal location for the sport to take root.
Beyond just the school districts and academies, Cricket for All has been instrumental in making cricket more inclusive. The nonprofit provides opportunities for underrepresented communities, ensuring that cricket is accessible to children from all backgrounds. In addition to grassroots programs and school integration, Singh has also announced that legendary coach Gary Kirsten will play a pivotal role in educating and certifying PE teachers across the U.S. to lead cricket sessions.
Kirsten’s expertise will help expand the footprint of youth cricket in schools, ensuring that educators are equipped to teach the fundamentals and intricacies of the game. The program is set to reach hundreds of teachers across the country, further accelerating the growth of cricket in U.S. schools. For more information on how to get involved or support youth cricket initiatives, visit www.Cricket4All.org .
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