The upcoming T20 World Cup cricket tournament is set to make history as it ventures to America and the West Indies. In a surprising revelation by the International Cricket Council (ICC), the organizing body disclosed that the infrastructure for matches in America will be entirely temporary. The pitch, originating from Melbourne, Australia, and spectator chairs imported from Las Vegas, will shape the unique setup.
Adelaide Oval curator Damian Hough, renowned for his expertise, will craft drop-in pitches for the tournament. Drop-in pitches, created off-site and transported to the field, will be a pivotal element of this unprecedented event. These pitches, maintained in Florida, will be crucial for matches in New York, while additional trays will be dedicated to practice pitches.
For the high-profile clash between cricket giants India and Pakistan on June 9, a temporary gallery capable of accommodating 34,000 spectators will be erected and subsequently dismantled post-match. Chris Tetley, the ICC event director, emphasized the temporary nature of all infrastructure, following the standard protocol in the sports world. Structures and equipment, including elements from Las Vegas, will be flown in, assembled, and disassembled promptly after each match.
Tetley stated, “America, with 30 million cricket enthusiasts, holds the title as the third-largest market for the sport. Construction commences in February, with completion slated for May.” The innovative approach not only accommodates logistical challenges but also addresses potential rain disruptions with planned water drainage systems.
While some purists may scoff at the notion of temporary facilities, this groundbreaking approach ensures cricket’s expansion into new markets, leveraging America’s substantial cricket fanbase.
