Strategic collaboration aims to build player pathways from local talent to international competition
Dallas, Texas – In a significant move for global cricket development, the Saudi Arabian Cricket Federation (SACF) and the National Cricket League (NCL) have announced a strategic partnership to grow grassroots cricket, expand elite player pathways, and create cross-border opportunities for emerging cricketers.
The announcement comes as cricket prepares for its return to the Olympic Games in Los Angeles 2028, and reflects ICC Chairman Jay Shah’s vision to grow the sport in associate nations through diaspora engagement and sustainable development. The partnership connects two of the sport’s fastest-growing markets — Saudi Arabia and the United States — both of which are experiencing significant surges in participation and interest.
Four pillars of the SACF–NCL partnership
Under the agreement, SACF and NCL will collaborate in four key areas to create long-term value and structure within their development systems:
Grassroots Development: Launching school, academy, and community cricket programs; hosting tournaments and clinics; and creating clear pathways for youth players to reach elite levels.
Knowledge & Expertise Sharing: Exchanging best practices in areas like infrastructure, coaching, league operations, and talent development.
Technical Collaboration: Establishing coaching certification frameworks, umpiring standards, and integrating digital learning tools for players and coaches.
Events & Exposure: Saudi grassroots players will be invited to participate in NCL development events such as the Collegiate Cricket League — a prominent university-level tournament — and the Path to Cricket Pro initiative, aimed at scouting and preparing future professionals.
Connecting cricket ecosystems in the US and Saudi Arabia
The partnership will create new international playing opportunities for young Saudi cricketers, offering access to NCL events across the United States and Canada. In turn, it provides American programs with valuable cultural exchange and expanded scouting networks. By aligning grassroots systems and connecting player development pipelines, the collaboration aims to foster both domestic growth and international competitiveness.
“This is a bridge connecting two nations with a shared passion for cricket and a vision for its future,” said Arun Agarwal, Chairman of the National Cricket League. “By aligning our grassroots systems and opening cross-border pathways, we’re creating real opportunities for young players to move from local pitches to the world stage.”
“Saudi Arabia is experiencing a surge in cricket participation,” said Tariq Sagga, CEO of the Saudi Arabian Cricket Federation. “This cooperation with the National Cricket League allows us to turn that momentum into structured grassroots development programs and international opportunities. Together, we can inspire the next generation and grow the sport’s global footprint.”
A model for global cricket development
The NCL–SACF collaboration demonstrates how strategic partnerships can grow cricket beyond traditional strongholds. With both nations investing heavily in infrastructure, youth engagement, and high-performance pathways, this joint initiative is expected to raise playing standards and connect global cricket communities through a shared vision for growth.
As cricket continues its push toward the 2028 Olympics, this partnership provides a blueprint for how associate nations can leverage international cooperation to accelerate development and inspire the next generation of stars.
