A US BANKRUPTCY COURT has recently approved a landmark settlement between USA Cricket and American Cricket Enterprises (ACE), the operator of Major League Cricket (MLC), marking a pivotal moment for the sport’s future in the United States.
The ruling, delivered by US Bankruptcy Judge Michael Romero, brings an end to a prolonged legal dispute that has kept USA Cricket in bankruptcy proceedings for the past eight months and moves the organisation closer to regaining full recognition from the International Cricket Council (ICC).
The settlement resolves a major legal impasse between USA Cricket and ACE, which operates Major League Cricket under a long-term commercial agreement with the national governing body. The approval is expected to enable USA Cricket to emerge from bankruptcy, implement governance reforms and proceed with the establishment of a new board that aligns with ICC requirements. These steps are viewed as critical to restoring stability to cricket administration in the United States at a time when the country is preparing to play a significant role in the sport’s global expansion.
However, while approving the settlement, Judge Romero delivered unusually strong criticism of the bankruptcy trustee’s handling of the case. In his written order, the judge stated that the trustee had “barely managed to limp over” the legal requirements necessary for the court to approve the agreement. The remarks underscored that the settlement met the minimum threshold for approval rather than representing an exemplary process, highlighting the court’s concerns over how the proceedings had been managed.
Despite those reservations, the judge concluded that the agreement was in the best interests of the bankruptcy estate and its stakeholders. The decision removes one of the biggest legal obstacles facing USA Cricket and allows the governing body to focus on rebuilding its administration following years of governance disputes, financial instability and ICC intervention.
The ruling is particularly significant because the ICC has made governance reform a key condition for restoring USA Cricket’s standing. The governing body has been operating under increased ICC oversight, with concerns raised over board structure, financial management and organisational effectiveness. The approved settlement is expected to facilitate the appointment of a new, independent board that complies with ICC governance standards, potentially paving the way for full reinstatement.
The decision also carries major implications for the future of cricket in the United States ahead of the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles. Cricket will return to the Olympics for the first time since 1900 at LA28, and a stable, internationally recognised governing body is considered essential for the United States to maximise the opportunities presented by the sport’s Olympic inclusion.
Major League Cricket, operated by ACE, has become the cornerstone of professional cricket in the United States since its launch in 2023. Backed by prominent investors and featuring international stars, the league has played a central role in expanding cricket’s commercial footprint across North America. The settlement is expected to strengthen the relationship between USA Cricket and MLC, providing greater certainty for the league’s future operations and long-term investment plans.
From a sports business perspective, the court’s approval removes a significant source of uncertainty surrounding cricket’s governance in the United States. A successful exit from bankruptcy and eventual ICC reinstatement would enhance confidence among broadcasters, sponsors and investors while supporting the continued growth of Major League Cricket. At the same time, Judge Romero’s pointed criticism serves as a reminder that robust governance and transparent administration will remain essential if USA Cricket is to establish lasting credibility and capitalise on the commercial opportunities leading up to the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games.
