Cricket Unites: Indianapolis’ premier sporting and networking event

By FEROZ SYED
Guest Columnist

As the Summer Olympics come to a close, central Indiana is preparing to host another exciting event for an internationally loved sport. On Saturday, Aug. 17, the eighth annual CricIndy League cricket tournament will bring together over 20 companies and over 600 attendees for a thrilling day of competition, camaraderie, and cultural celebration.

For those unfamiliar with cricket, imagine a sport that combines the strategic depth of baseball with the non-stop energy of soccer. It’s a game of skill, stamina, and spectacle that has captivated billions around the world. And now, it’s making its mark right here in the heartland of America.

The CricIndy League has grown to what it is today from humble beginnings a decade ago. What started as a friendly match between a handful of cricket enthusiasts at 10 companies has blossomed into a premier sporting event for the city, attracting sponsors and participants from across the city’s diverse business landscape. Companies and business leaders from across the city and its surroundings are able to build their own teams to compete for CricIndy’s Cricket Cup.

But this isn’t just about cricket. It’s about building bridges between communities, fostering understanding, and celebrating the rich tapestry of cultures that make Indianapolis great; it is a heartfelt celebration of diversity, equity, and inclusion in the community and the corporate landscape. That’s why on Aug. 16, the eve of the tournament, CricIndy is hosting a special professional networking event. It’s an opportunity to connect, share stories, and form lasting relationships that extend far beyond the cricket pitch while celebrating the diversity of our business community in central Indiana.

The growth of the CricIndy League mirrors the rising popularity of cricket across the United States. With the sport set to debut at the 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles for the first time since 1900, there’s never been a better time to get acquainted with this global phenomenon. CricIndy’s tournament offers the perfect introduction – a chance to witness the excitement firsthand and perhaps even discover a new passion.

CricIndy would like to extend a profound and sincere gratitude to all panelists, participants, and sponsors for joining hands with us to help elevate our communities, building a happy, healthy, and inclusive lifestyle in the community and the workplace, while promoting the international sport of cricket to the next level.

To all the teams preparing to take the field: we wish you the very best of luck. May your bats swing true, your bowlers find their mark, and your fielders display acrobatic brilliance. But remember, win or lose, the true victory lies in the friendships formed and the barriers broken down.

And to our wonderful central Indiana community: we invite you to be part of this extraordinary event. Join us for the networking evening on Aug. 16 hosted by RADcube and Eli Lilly at the Eli Lilly Corporate Center, 893 Delaware St., Indianapolis, surrounding diversity, equity, and inclusion in the corporate world. Then, on Aug. 17, come cheer on the teams as they battle it out for cricket glory at Grand Park in Westfield.

The CricIndy League is more than just a tournament. It’s a testament to the inclusive spirit of our city, a celebration of our diversity, and a glimpse into the exciting future of cricket in America. The tournament day will open with the Flag Ceremony supported by the Indiana National Guard, and will continue with kid’s activities, CPR demonstrations by Syra Health and a culturally diverse halftime show, all while the 20 teams will battle it out for the ultimate championship.  Whether you’re a lifelong fan or a curious newcomer, there’s a place for you in this vibrant cricket community.

So mark your calendars, spread the word, and get ready for two days of unforgettable fun. Let’s come together, bat by bat and bowl by bowl, to make this the best CricIndy League Tournament yet!

Feroz Syed is the founder of CricIndy and the CEO of RADcube.