Finally, the eyes turn towards the T20 World Cup in the United States of America, but it has yet to cast its spell on the public. This was particularly observed when the International Cricket Council (ICC) booked the event on the American soil, especially in New York, with negative repercussions on the event as a whole
In an attempt to add glamour to the event, the ICC had planned three India matches, including the match against Pakistan, in the city. But this change has failed to deliver results on the expected parameters since cricket is not very popular in the United States.
Before the match, India’s head coach, Rahul Dravid, admitted that players felt a ‘different’ atmosphere when playing the tournament in a country where cricket is not appreciated. It was a measured remark, but it carried a hint of disappointment that some colleagues did not seem to share the excitement he felt over work conducted on these shores — “You don’t feel that kind of buzz over here,” Dravid said.
The teams had to train in a public park in Cantiague Park, which is several miles away from the ground and contributed to creating an uncomfortable environment. According to Dravid, the experience was rather unusual, as it is unimaginable to practice in a park.
Still, the latter has attracted controversy by being băng at the newly built Nassau County venue, where Sri Lanka managed their least-ever T20 score of 77 all-out to South Africa. The Proteas also failed to give a good chase to such a low target, which exposed the nature of the wicket built for the match.
This will, therefore, increase engagement of the American audience that has not fully embraced the T20 World Cup in their region as the tournament progresses and the organizers/teams look forward to more Live audiences in the coming games.
