The International Cricket Council (ICC) is poised to welcome three new African nations – Burkina Faso, Mauritius, and Burundi – as Associate members by year-end, signaling cricket’s growing reach on the continent.
These nations had aimed for earlier inclusion but faced administrative queries.
The recent ICC Annual General Meeting saw Zambia readmitted as an Associate member, alongside Timor-Leste, bringing the total membership to 110.
Zambia’s return, after a 2021 expulsion for governance issues, highlights the ICC’s commitment to re-engaging compliant nations.
Meanwhile, USA Cricket remains “on notice” with the ICC due to ongoing compliance concerns.
Despite addressing five of eight flagged issues, the USA’s participation in the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games hinges on resolving remaining governance, finance, and administration problems.
The ICC emphasizes the need for “comprehensive governance reforms,” including “free and fair elections within a three-month period,” to secure the vital National Governing Body (NGB) status required for Olympic inclusion.
While Cricket Chile, also placed on notice previously, has resolved its issues, USA Cricket faces continued scrutiny.
