Cricket is one of the most popular games in the world and will feature at the 2028 Summer Olympic Games in Los Angeles. Its popularity is increasing in the U.S. Team USA managed to beat the Pakistani cricket team, one of the best in the world, in the Men’s T20 Cricket World Cup this year.
For a few decades after the American Civil War, Philadelphia was known for its elite amateur cricket team that hosted touring sides from across the world and also travelled to compete against top teams globally. Over 35 years, it played in 88 first-class cricket matches and won 29.
Cricket went through a rise and fall in the country as a whole, reflecting political, social, and economic changes. It is now rising again, and membership at one of the cricket clubs mentioned below gives you the opportunity to play. From organizations like The Philadelphians Cricket, you can get more information about local cricket teams and leagues.
Philadelphia Cricket Club
This is one of the oldest private country clubs in the United States. It has two locations in Chestnut Hill and Flourtown. It started as a club to play cricket and has had steady support since cricket was revived about 20 years ago. The goal at this club is to be competitive but also to have a good time. Members of different ages and varying skill levels play at the club. More seasoned players will coach those who are just starting out.
The club has a comprehensive competition schedule and hosts the Philadelphia International Cricket Festival. This amateur event is held every spring and attracts teams from across the world.
Cricket is just one of the sports that bettors in Pennsylvania enjoy betting on. PA sports betting is legal and live online, whether you choose to use a sports betting app or to play at a retail sportsbook.
Merion Cricket Club
The Merion Cricket Club is a family-oriented club that was established in 1865. By the mid-1920s, cricket had become virtually nonexistent at Merion, but it was resurrected by a small group of members. In 2015, the club reached its 150th anniversary and joined a short list of clubs in the U.S. that can claim such an honor.
The club has moved through three different suburban locations over the years and is now based in Haverford. It offers facilities and programs for all levels of play, plus many social activities.
Germantown Cricket Club
This cricket club, located in the Germantown neighborhood of Philadelphia, is the second-oldest in the U.S. and is still known as one of the premier cricket grounds. The Germantown Cricket Club moved to its present location on Manheim Street after merging with the Young American Cricket Club in 1890.
Some members of the team played for the Philadelphian Cricket Team, which represented Philadelphia in first-class cricket from 1878 to 1913. It was considered one of the strongest teams in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
Today, the private club has top-class facilities for the whole family. It welcomes both new cricket players and seasoned ones, nurturing a love for the game in players of all ages. They can learn and compete to reach top athletic performance. Each year, it hosts the final of the Philadelphia International Cricket Festival.
Major League Cricket Academy
Some big money backers are investing in expanding the profile of cricket across the U.S. They have invested in Major League Cricket, a franchise league of six teams launched in 2023 and given official T20 status a year later. MLC is planning to expand and is starting to establish cricket academies.
The Major League Cricket Academy is a national-level program being established across various cities throughout the country. Certified coaches who have played at the highest levels in the country are available year-round to coach young players. It hopes to develop pathways for players to play at the college level and in minor-major league cricket.
