Beyond extravaganza of the IPL, here’s how the game will actually improve

Oh we can already hear the iconic IPL tune buzzing. Why wouldn’t it? The cricket extravaganza is here!

As the cricketing world gears up for the spectacle of the Indian Premier League (IPL), a tournament brings in millions of eyeballs easily, it’s sometimes understandably easy to overlook the strategic groundwork happening behind the scenes that’s making the game even better.

While T20 leagues dominate the limelight, the International Cricket Council (ICC) and other cricket associated bodies are working on something far more fundamental - ensuring the long-term health of the sport by strengthening its foundation. Cricket needs its fans, and it needs young talents and emerging teams to be able to make a mark. More importantly, there need to be valid pathways.

In this article, we’ll look at some of the strategic groundworks that are happening in the background, while at the same time sharing our thoughts on where the game needs to focus on for longevity.

More games mean more experience for associate nations

Right off the bat, pun intended, the ICC’s redone World Cup qualification pathways have heavily increased the opportunities for emerging teams to compete at a higher level.

Traditionally, non-full-member nations had very limited chances to play against top-tier teams, often relying on one-off tournaments like the ICC Trophy. However, the introduction of structured competitions such as the ICC Cricket World Cup League 2, the Challenge League, and the expanded T20 World Cup qualification process has ensured these teams get regular, meaningful fixtures.

These leagues provide a consistent calendar of competitive matches, allowing teams like Nepal, Oman, the USA, and Scotland to gain valuable experience, improve their rankings, and realistically aim for World Cup participation.

It’s taken its time but the impact is shown as associate nations have significantly improved their standards of cricket over the recent years.

Push for Grassroots & Youth Cricket

Cricket’s greatest tournaments, including the World Cup and IPL, thrive on young, raw, star power. But where do these youth stars come from?

Sustainable cricketing nations aren’t built overnight; they require structured pathways. The ICC has long recognized this and is doubling down on programs designed to expand the game’s reach.

The ICC’s U19 World Cup continues to be a breeding ground for talent, but the real challenge lies in bridging the gap between youth and senior cricket. Recognizing this, the ICC has been working closely with national boards to strengthen their domestic structures, ensuring young players don’t get lost in the system.

Bigger Platforms, Better Popularity

The inclusion of cricket in the 2028 Olympics is also set to open doors for aspiring players from non-traditional cricketing nations. The olympics is a widely viewed event that brings together diverse audiences from across the world, providing cricket with an unprecedented platform to showcase itself beyond its traditional strongholds. For associate nations like the USA, Germany, and Namibia, Olympic participation could drive government funding, increase grassroots interest, and attract corporate sponsorships - all of which are crucial for long-term cricket development.

The Champions Trophy: Then vs. Now

The ICC Champions Trophy, once a fundraiser for developing cricket nations, has evolved into a major ICC event. Initially conceived in 1998 as a way to generate funds for grassroots cricket, the early editions were hosted in associate nations such as Kenya and Bangladesh, giving them an opportunity to develop their cricketing infrastructure.

However, as the tournament gained more prestige, it’s now shifted towards being an elite competition. Today, more than ever before, the world of cricket - the yough and the associate nations - will benefit from fundraisers like the Champions Trophy. More focus needs to be poured in developing the emerging areas of the game, rather than it only being a prestigious competitive trophy.

Next generation is key

As fans, it’s exciting to witness the high-stakes drama of franchise cricket, but the real test of the sport’s success lies in how well the next generation is nurtured.

At iCaptain, we believe technology can play a crucial role in bridging the gap between grassroots and professional cricket. With advanced management solutions for leagues, tournaments, and talent tracking, we are building a future where there are no cracks for a young cricketer to disappear. We want to be centralized, accessible and sport’s go-to technology in all facets.