New Delhi, August 25 – Former Indian Premier League (IPL) commissioner Lalit Modi has cast doubt on the long-term success of cricket in the United States, arguing that the sport cannot thrive there without global stars such as Virat Kohli and MS Dhoni.

Speaking about the challenges of building a fan base in a non-traditional market, Modi recalled a conversation with West Indies legend Chris Gayle, who reportedly told him, “It’s dead.” Modi suggested that while leagues may spark temporary interest, cricket in the US lacks the superstar power required to sustain viewership and commercial success.

The United States has made repeated efforts to establish cricket, with Major League Cricket (MLC) recently attracting international players and investments. However, analysts agree that competing with sports like baseball, basketball, and American football remains a steep challenge. Without household names consistently participating, the sport struggles to capture mainstream attention.

Modi also pointed out that players like Kohli and Dhoni, known worldwide for their achievements and popularity, bring unmatched visibility. Their absence from US-based tournaments, he argued, weakens the sport’s appeal in that market.

Despite the skepticism, MLC organizers have maintained that grassroots initiatives and long-term planning can gradually build a loyal fan following. Cricket’s inclusion in the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics is also seen as a potential breakthrough moment for the sport in America.

For now, Modi’s remarks highlight ongoing doubts about whether cricket can secure a stable foothold in the highly competitive US sporting landscape.