As American cricket navigates one of the most turbulent periods in its history — marked by governance disputes, lawsuits, and institutional uncertainty — the game itself must continue to evolve. Teams still need to compete, players need to play, and young cricketers across the country need clear pathways to develop and thrive.
At the upcoming cricexec Forum on Friday, October 24, 2025, in Santa Clara, California – the capstone session of the Cricket Impact Summit & Expo – a special panel titled “Rebuilding the innings: the path forward for cricket in America” will bring together four respected voices — administrators, players, and pioneers — to discuss how U.S. cricket can regain momentum and build a sustainable future.
A moment for reflection and rebuilding
Despite the turbulence surrounding governance, the U.S. cricket ecosystem continues to grow at the grassroots and franchise levels. This session aims to look beyond today’s challenges to ask what needs to happen next — from leadership and structure, to player development, coaching, and community engagement.
The conversation will explore how all corners of the ecosystem — governing bodies, leagues, academies, and players — can work together to ensure that the sport’s foundation in America remains strong and inclusive.
The panelists
A long-time servant of the game and respected voice on governance
Walters has spent decades shaping American cricket through roles at the local, regional, and national levels — including as Director of the United States of America Cricket Association (USACA), Governance Review Committee Chair, and member of the ICC-appointed Local Advisory Group that helped guide the transition from USACA to USA Cricket. Known for his commitment to transparency and sustainable governance, Walters continues to advocate for expanding cricket’s reach beyond traditional communities and ensuring youth and underserved groups have access to the sport. Walters also stays close to the game through his Minor League Cricket commentating.
CEO, East Bay Blazers | President, Bay Area Cricket Club | Founder, Blazers Cricket Academy
A California-based technology executive and cricket visionary, Nair has built one of the most vibrant ecosystems in U.S. cricket. As CEO and owner of the East Bay Blazers, he has led the franchise to three Western Division titles and a 2024 national runner-up finish in Minor League Cricket. Through his Blazers Cricket Academy, he trains more than 400 youth across the Bay Area and has championed the growth of women’s cricket through the Blazers Bay Area Open. Nair brings a unique perspective on how governance, innovation, and community investment can intersect to build lasting success.
World Cup winner, San Francisco Unicorns player, Founder, Liam Plunkett Cricket, and Director, Cricket Impact Group
A 2019 ICC Cricket World Cup champion with England, Plunkett now plays and mentors in the United States, where he has become one of the sport’s most influential transplants. As a founding director of the Cricket Impact Group, Plunkett is focused on strengthening the domestic landscape and fostering professionalism within American cricket. His experience bridging international excellence with emerging-market growth – and playing in both the County Championship and the MLC/MiLC makes him a valuable voice on how the U.S. can develop elite players and sustainable pathways.
Captain, USA Women’s National T20 Team
At just 19, Kolan represents the future of American cricket. The right-hand top-order batter and wicketkeeper captains the USA Women’s T20 team and led the U19 Women’s team to the Super Six stage of the ICC U19 Women’s T20 World Cup. Kolan will share the player’s perspective — the importance of structured pathways, high-quality coaching, and opportunities for women and youth to compete at the highest levels.
Keeping the game moving forward
Together, these voices will tackle the central question: how does U.S. cricket rebuild — not just its institutions, but its identity and momentum? The discussion will range from to the building blocks of long-term growth: grassroots programs, youth academies, domestic leagues, good governance, and professional opportunities that inspire the next generation.
“The sport has to keep moving,” said Zee Zaidi, Publisher of Cricexec. “Cricket in America is at a crossroads — but there are passionate people across every level working to make sure it not only survives, but thrives. This panel is about finding that shared path forward.”
About the session
Rebuilding the innings: the path forward for cricket in America
Friday, October 24 • 3:30 PM – 4:15 PM PT
Part of the Cricexec Forum, the business-focused capstone of the Cricket Impact Summit in Santa Clara, California.
Get your tickets now!
