New York City (New York) [US], August 21: In a historic first for cricket in the USA, Times Square turned into a cricket pitch as part of India Day celebrations, led by Cricmax Connect and the Federation of Indian Associations (FIA), transforming the world’s most iconic crossroads into a sporting stage.
The three-day celebration began on August 15, 2025, with a flag-hoisting ceremony at the Consulate General of India in New York, where dignitaries and community leaders gathered, and U.S. national players Saiteja Mukkamalla and Jessy Singh were honored with felicitations. That afternoon, Indian film star Vijay Deverakonda joined representatives from Cricmax Connect and FIA for a ceremonial lighting of the Empire State Building in the Indian tricolour.
On August 16, 2025, the festivities culminated at Times Square, where Indian film star Vijay Deverakonda led a spirited flag-hoisting ceremony alongside FIA members and community representatives. Adding to the pride of the occasion, U.S. national players Sai Mukkamalla, Yasir Mohammed, and Smit Patel also took part, reflecting the growing presence of cricket in America.
The defining and most unforgettable moment came when, for the very first time, a cricket match was staged at Times Square. In the symbolic opening, Consul General Amb. Binaya Srikanta Pradhan took strike as the first batsman, with Mr. Satnam Singh Sandhu delivering the first ceremonial ball. What began as a formal gesture quickly turned into a vibrant celebration, as U.S. national players, community leaders, kids, and guests all picked up bat and ball, bringing the energy of cricket to the heart of Manhattan.
The crowd at Times Square—filled with Indian Americans, cricket fans, and curious New Yorkers—cheered as players showcased the sport, proving that cricket’s spirit transcends borders. For many, witnessing a live cricket showcase in one of the world’s most famous locations was a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
“Cricmax Connect was created to give cricket in the U.S. a true grassroots foundation, a pathway where young talent can dream big and find real opportunities,” said Vinay Bhimjiani, Founder & CEO of Cricmax Connect. “To see cricket being played for the very first time at Times Square is not just historic, it is symbolic of the sport’s rise here. Our vision is to make cricket a part of America’s sporting fabric, and this moment proves that the future of the game in the U.S. has never looked brighter.”
For Media Queries, reach out to
Khushboo Thakkar: Khushboo.manifestorypr@gmail.com
