ICC targets China to expand global cricket fan base

The International Cricket Council (ICC) has identified China as a primary target for global expansion as it seeks to grow its fan base by 500 million people. While South Asia currently represents approximately 90 percent of cricket's billion-plus fans, the ICC views China's 1.4 billion population as a significant untapped market.

ICC Chief Executive Sanjog Gupta noted that the progress of China's women's national team has provided a boost to the sport's local profile. The women's team has climbed 10 places in the world rankings over the last two years, though they currently sit 36th in the ICC T20 rankings. In contrast, the men's team is ranked 92nd.

To support this growth, the ICC has invested $1.5 million in China over the past five years. The country now features three top-level cricket venues, including a new 1,500-seat stadium in Taicang intended for domestic and international matches. The ICC is also testing market appetite through Mandarin broadcasts of women's T20 World Cup matches.