Albany, NY – State Senator Kevin Thomas (D-Nassau County) and Assemblywoman Nily Rozic (D,WF-Fresh Meadows) announced the passage of legislation (A6306/S) that they sponsored that would create a Cricket Task Force to conduct a comprehensive study and create strategies to promote the game of cricket in New York.

“Cricket, the second-most popular sport in the world, is becoming increasingly popular in the State of New York. The creation of the Empire State Cricket Task Force will help promote this exciting sport and identify potential economic development opportunities to help it grow and thrive,” said Senator Thomas. “As the first Indian-American in the New York State Senate, I am thrilled to sponsor this legislation!”

“New Yorkers already welcome and support cricket with great enthusiasm. Cricket brings with it a massive audience – the second largest in the world – and economic development opportunities," said Assemblywoman Rozic. “With the growth of numerous leagues across New York, the creation of a Cricket Task Force would benefit the sport and help it continue to flourish.”

Ashok Adikoppula, Founder of the Capital District Cricket Association said: “The first ever international cricket match was played between USA and Canada in 1844 in our very own New York city. In fact, it was the first official international game of any sport played by USA in New York City. But somewhere down the line this beautiful sport lost its way. It is now heartwarming to see the Empire State Cricket Task-force in the very state cricket was so popular back in the days. I am happy and excited to be part of this amazing journey in bringing back the game of cricket to the place it deserves to be. To me, cricket is above so many things in life! It doesn't matter how good one is, it’s about playing hard and competing. It's about teamwork, enjoying what we do on and off the field with our teammates and being positive. In short, this game teaches you skills that you can apply in life as well.”

Sibu Nair, Board Member of the Erie County Arts and Cultural Advisory Board said: “As a liaison between Erie County and the Indian Community, I have been actively promoting and working for the established Cricket ground in Buffalo NY. I am so excited to hear the latest development in the NY State legislature regarding the recently passed bill to create the Empire State Cricket Task Force. This is a huge boost to the game and to the local economy.”

The game of Cricket, created in England in the 16th century, is the second most popular sport in the world. New York hosted the first international cricket match in 1844.