The cricket stadium being built for 2028 Summer Olympics in Pomona could stage Indian Premier League matches in the future, as part of efforts to expand the sport in the United States.
Construction has begun at Fairplex, with the venue set to host Olympic cricket and become a long-term base for franchise cricket in America.
IPL expansion plans in focus
Venky Mysore, CEO of Kolkata Knight Riders, said there is strong interest in bringing IPL exhibition matches to the US through their sister franchise, the Los Angeles Knight Riders.
While scheduling remains a challenge due to packed international calendars, discussions around overseas exhibition games have continued as the league looks to grow globally.
Stadium construction underway
The Pomona venue will be built in phases, starting with a 5,000-seat capacity this year, expanding to 8,500 by 2027, and reaching 15,000 for the Olympic tournament.
It will also host matches in Major League Cricket, with several games already scheduled in July as part of its early use.
Focus on world-class facilities
Organisers are prioritising pitch quality after criticism of surfaces during the 2024 T20 World Cup in the US.
A traditional cricket square using local clay and high-quality turf is being developed, along with dedicated practice facilities, to ensure elite playing standards for the Olympics.
Mysore stressed that no compromises are being made, with the aim of creating a venue comparable to top cricket grounds worldwide.
USA seen as key market
The United States is viewed as a major growth opportunity for cricket, with previous proposals to host IPL teams in North America yet to materialise.
With rising viewership and the emergence of Major League Cricket, stakeholders believe the time is right to push the sport further into the global mainstream.
Multi-purpose future planned
Beyond cricket, the venue is expected to function as a multi-use stadium and entertainment hub, hosting concerts and other sporting events.
With both men’s and women’s cricket set to feature at LA 2028, the stadium could play a central role in shaping the sport’s future in a new market.
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