The Oakland Coliseum, once a quiet baseball stadium, has transformed into a vibrant cricket arena that’s capturing the hearts of Bay Area sports enthusiasts. Major League Cricket (MLC) has turned this historic venue into a buzzing epicenter of international cricket, drawing thousands of passionate fans.

Liam Plunkett, a 2019 World Cup champion from England, has been instrumental in bringing cricket to the forefront of Bay Area sports. “All of a sudden, we’re playing in front of a good fan base of 11,000 people,” Plunkett shared, highlighting the growing excitement around the sport.

The MLC, now in its second season, has been attracting top-tier international players who are committed to expanding cricket’s footprint in the United States. This isn’t just about entertainment; it’s a strategic effort to elevate cricket’s profile and engage a diverse, sports-loving audience.

Next week, the Cricket Impact Summit and Expo in Santa Clara will be a crucial moment for the sport’s domestic growth. Leaders like Plunkett are using this platform to discuss strategies for expanding cricket’s reach and popularity.

The upcoming 2028 Olympic Games represent a significant milestone for cricket, potentially transforming how Americans perceive and engage with the sport. By bringing international talent to local stadiums and creating accessible, exciting experiences, cricket is proving it’s more than just a niche sport, it’s a dynamic, community-building phenomenon.

With the Bay Area leading the charge, cricket is no longer just an international game, it’s becoming a local passion that bridges cultures, generations, and sporting traditions.