Seattle University is full of energy, culture and global voices—and I absolutely love that. From vibrant classroom debates to lively multicultural events, we’re a campus that truly celebrates diversity. But there’s one place where we’re still playing catch-up: sports. With cricket exploding in popularity right here in Seattle, I believe it’s time for Seattle U to seriously consider welcoming cricket into our athletic culture. 

Cricket is the second most popular sport in the world, watched and played by over 2.5 billion people. From India and Pakistan to Australia, the UK and the Caribbean, it’s a sport that carries deep meaning for so many. For many international students, cricket is more than a pastime, it’s a connection to home. In Seattle, this connection is growing stronger by the day. Thanks to the launch of the Seattle Orcas, our city’s own professional team in Major League Cricket (MLC), we’re seeing how cricket is no longer just an ‘international’ sport—it’s becoming a Seattle sport too. 

A perfect example of this growing love came during a recent event at Bellevue Downtown Park. In the middle of the workday, over 1,200 people gathered just to celebrate cricket, meet the Seattle Orcas and take photos with the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup trophy. That number speaks volumes. It tells us that cricket has an audience here, and more importantly, it has a community. Soma Somasegar, co-owner of the Seattle Orcas, said it best.

“One of the reasons we were excited to bring cricket to Seattle is because we think there is an amazing amount of people that are passionate for the sport here,” Somasegar said. 

This isn’t just hype—it’s a movement. State Representative Vandana Slatter added to this idea.

“Cricket is more than just a sport. It is a unifying force that transcends boundaries. It brings together people from different backgrounds, cultures and beliefs,” Slatter said.

That’s the kind of impact Seattle U should be embracing—not just for the sake of athletics, but for the social and cultural value it brings to our campus. 

With Seattle U’s growing international student population, integrating cricket into student life would make many of us feel more represented. For students coming from countries where cricket is practically a way of life, having it on campus can strengthen the feeling of belonging. It can also be an exciting cultural experience for domestic students who’ve never played or watched the sport before. Sports have always been a great equalizer, a place where language barriers and cultural differences fade away. Cricket has the power to create that kind of space here. 

Beyond inclusion and connection, let’s focus on the broader benefits. Hosting cricket matches or tournaments at Seattle U could bring in local fans, community leaders and families. It opens the door to sponsorships and partnerships with growing organizations like Major League Cricket. Imagine Seattle U-branded cricket gear, cultural game days and intercollegiate friendlies with other universities getting into the sport. These aren’t just fun ideas, they’re real opportunities for revenue, student engagement and campus pride. 

Seattle U wouldn’t be alone in embracing cricket. Across the United States, numerous colleges and universities have recognized the sport’s growing appeal and have integrated it into their athletic programs. Organizations like American College Cricket (ACC) have been instrumental in promoting the sport at the collegiate level, with over 90 member colleges participating in regional and national tournaments. Universities such as the University of South Florida have established successful cricket teams, with the USF Bulls winning national championships in 2014 and 2016. Additionally, institutions like Haverford College maintain varsity cricket teams, preserving the sport’s rich history in American academia. 

The 2024 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, co-hosted by the USA, marked a significant milestone in American cricket history. The tournament attracted record-breaking crowds, with approximately 190,000 fans attending matches across the country. 

High-profile matches, such as the India-Pakistan clash in New York, drew sell-out crowds and garnered substantial media attention. The USA team’s historic victory over Pakistan further ignited interest in the sport, showcasing the nation’s potential on the global cricket stage. These developments underscore cricket’s growing footprint in the U.S. and highlight the opportunities for institutions like Seattle U to be at the forefront of this cultural and sporting evolution. 

Introducing cricket at Seattle U is more than adding a new sport; it’s about embracing our diverse student body and enriching our campus culture. By aligning with the city’s growing interest in cricket and recognizing the sport’s global significance, Seattle U can take a meaningful step toward inclusivity and innovation in athletics. 

Cricket is rising. Seattle is listening. And I believe Seattle U should be part of that journey, not just as a spectator, but as a proud player in the story.