As the cricket world gears up for the ICC Men’s Twenty20 World Cup, officials have expressed confidence in the performance of the newly installed drop-in turf pitches at the temporary Nassau County International Cricket Stadium in New York. The stadium, a 34,000-seat facility located in Eisenhower Park, east of Manhattan, is set to host eight pivotal matches, including a highly anticipated showdown between India and Pakistan on June 9.
Chris Tetley, the ICC’s Head of Events, praised the efforts behind the construction of the stadium which mirrors the size of iconic cricket grounds such as The Gabba in Australia, The Oval in England, and Wankhede Stadium in India. The stadium features a full-sized outfield and is equipped with advanced drainage and irrigation systems, promising a world-class playing environment.
Adelaide Oval’s pitch curator, Damian Hough, was tasked with the development and transportation of these pitches. After overseeing their installation, Hough reported that, just two and a half weeks before the first game, all systems are performing well and meeting international standards.
The event drew cricket legends and sports stars for a preview, including Sir Curtly Ambrose, Usain Bolt, and former players from various American sports leagues. This engagement highlights the growing enthusiasm for cricket in the U.S. and underscores the ICC’s commitment to expanding cricket’s footprint globally.
The Nassau County stadium, which will revert to a public park post-tournament, represents a significant legacy project, providing lasting infrastructure for the local cricket community. Additional facilities include six other drop-in turf pitches at nearby practice venues, ensuring ample preparation space for the teams.
This year’s World Cup, co-hosted by the United States and the Caribbean, promises not only top-tier cricket action but also a significant boost to the sport’s popularity in new markets. With matches also set in Dallas, Texas, and Lauderhill, Florida, the tournament is a landmark event in cricket’s expansion to North American shores.
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