ST JOHN’S, Antigua (CMC) — Cricket West Indies (CWI) took centre stage at the International Cricket Council’s (ICC) annual conference in Singapore, presenting an ambitious plan to unite the Americas under a single cricketing federation and accelerate the sport’s explosive growth across the hemisphere.

The proposal, headlined by the creation of La Federación de Críquet de las Américas (FECA), seeks to formalise collaboration among cricket-playing nations in North, Central, and South America, as well as the Caribbean.

The initiative comes at a time when cricket’s popularity is skyrocketing in the region, with Brazil now boasting 88,000 registered players with over 50 per cent being women while the USA has surpassed 400,000 players, including 53,000 in youth programmes.

CWI CEO Chris Dehring emphasised that FECA will serve as a vital platform for development, competition, and regional engagement.

“Elevating the sport in the wider hemisphere benefits us all. By connecting emerging markets in the Americas with our established structures we can create more matches, exposure, and opportunities at every level for both ICC associate members and Cricket West Indies nations.”

The proposal also included discussions on an Americas Championship, modelled after the Asia Cup, wherein Caribbean nations could compete individually against teams from North, Central, and South America.

Additionally, pathways for Olympic and Pan American Games qualification were explored, ensuring all countries in the region have a fair shot at global representation.

With cricket’s return to the Olympics in 2028 Dehring stressed the importance of inclusion for Caribbean nations.

“Our 15 proud nations deserve a fair pathway to compete. Individual countries vying for Olympic qualification will not only boost national pride but also strengthen the West Indies team in the long run.”

The conference saw participation from cricket associations across the Americas, including the USA, Canada, Mexico, Brazil, Argentina, Bermuda, and The Bahamas, all united in their commitment to harnessing cricket’s growing momentum in the Western Hemisphere.