Senate Approves Legislation to Promote and Expand the Sport of Cricket in New York

(Albany, NY) — Senator Kevin Thomas, the first Indian-American to be elected to the New York State Senate, today announced the passage of legislation (S.146/Thomas) to include the sport of cricket in the New York State Athletic Commission (NYSAC).

Cricket is the second-most popular sport in the world, watched and played by billions of people across the world. With the growth of numerous leagues across New York, the addition of cricket to the purview of NYSAC would benefit the sport and help it continue to flourish. 

Senator Kevin Thomas said, “The sport of cricket goes hand-in-hand with the diversity and multiculturalism of our state, which is home to a number of thriving immigrant communities who grew up playing and watching cricket. I believe that New York has a unique opportunity to become the official Cricket Capitol of the U.S.A, which is why I introduced this legislation to recognize the legitimacy and value of cricket to our State. As the first Indian-American to be elected to the New York State Senate, I am thrilled to sponsor this legislation, especially because so many members of the South Asian community share a love and passion for this sport.” 

USA Cricket Director for New York Ajith Bhaskar said, “The passage of this bill is great news for the cricket community in New York State. New York already has a place in cricket history for having hosted the sport’s first international match in 1844. I am thankful to Senator Kevin Thomas for putting the spotlight on this exciting and popular sport, which will help us take the game to the next level here in New York State.” 

The bill was passed by the Assembly (A.479/Rozic) and will be delivered to the desk of the Governor. 

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