In a significant move to globalize cricket, Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Mohsin Naqvi met with USA Cricket’s Chief Executive Officer Johnathan Atkeison in Washington. The meeting, attended by Pakistan Super League (PSL) CEO Salman Naseer, focused on strengthening cricketing ties between the two nations and exploring future collaborations.
One of the key highlights of the discussion was the possibility of organizing a high-profile tri-series featuring Pakistan, the USA, and Canada. This initiative could mark a significant milestone in promoting international cricket in North America, a region where the sport is steadily gaining traction. A Pakistan-USA-Canada series would provide much-needed exposure to budding cricketers in these nations and bring top-tier cricket action to new audiences.
Beyond the tri-series, discussions also revolved around arranging bilateral series for both men’s and women’s teams. This move aligns with PCB’s vision of expanding its cricketing influence while contributing to the development of cricket worldwide. A series between Pakistan and the USA would not only be a competitive spectacle but also an opportunity for USA Cricket to gain experience by competing against a top-ranked cricketing nation.
Mohsin Naqvi reassured USA Cricket of PCB’s full support in developing players and improving infrastructure. Recognizing the USA’s growing interest in cricket, he extended an offer to train USA cricket coaches in Pakistan. This initiative could help enhance the quality of coaching in the USA, leading to improved player development and overall competitiveness in international cricket.
Adding a diplomatic touch to cricket relations, Chairman PCB invited Johnathan Atkeison to visit Pakistan during the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. This invitation underscores Pakistan’s commitment to strengthening its ties with the USA and offering firsthand exposure to Pakistan’s cricketing infrastructure and passionate fan base.
The collaboration between PCB and USA Cricket could be a watershed moment for cricket in the USA. The nation has recently shown an increasing interest in the sport, and with the right training, infrastructure, and competitive matches, it could become a formidable cricketing nation. With the ICC T20 World Cup 2024 co-hosted by the USA and the West Indies, this partnership comes at a crucial time to build momentum for cricket’s expansion in North America.
The meeting between PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi and USA Cricket CEO Johnathan Atkeison signals an exciting future for cricket. With plans for a tri-series, bilateral encounters, and coaching support, this partnership could be the catalyst for the USA’s rise in international cricket. As cricket continues to break new ground globally, collaborations like these will play a pivotal role in ensuring its sustained growth and popularity.
Cricket enthusiasts can now look forward to thrilling matchups and greater engagement between Pakistan and USA Cricket, a testament to how the sport is transcending borders and gaining a truly global appeal.