by Cricket is no longer just a sport for South Asians living abroad. It’s becoming a genuine American phenomenon.
From the explosive growth of Major League Cricket (MLC) to record-breaking viewership for the IPL and T20 World Cup, millions of Americans are now asking the same question: how to watch cricket in USA?
Whether you’re a lifelong fan who grew up watching Test matches or a newcomer curious about why billions love this sport, finding reliable ways to stream cricket in America can be confusing.
Cable packages don’t always include cricket channels. Streaming services vary wildly in what they offer. And many international platforms block American viewers.
But here’s the good news: watching cricket in the USA has never been easier.
Multiple platforms now offer live coverage of every major tournament — IPL, T20 World Cup, Pakistan Super League, Big Bash League, Major League Cricket, and bilateral series from around the world.
How to Watch Cricket in USA?
This comprehensive guide breaks down everything you need to know.
We’ll cover TV options, streaming services, mobile apps, VPN solutions, free trials, and even how Reddit communities help fans find matches.
Whether you want premium HD quality or budget-friendly options, you’ll find the perfect solution here.
Let’s explore every way to watch cricket live in America.
How to Watch Cricket in USA on TV: Traditional Broadcasting Options
For fans who prefer watching cricket on their television rather than phones or laptops, several broadcast options exist.
Willow TV USA: The Cricket Broadcasting Leader
Willow TV is the undisputed king of cricket broadcasting in America. It’s the primary dedicated cricket channel that has built its entire identity around serving the US cricket audience.
What Makes Willow TV Special:
- Comprehensive Tournament Coverage: IPL, T20 World Cup, Cricket World Cup, Champions Trophy, Asia Cup
- International Series: Matches featuring India, Pakistan, Australia, England, South Africa, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, West Indies
- League Cricket: PSL (Pakistan Super League), BBL (Big Bash League), CPL (Caribbean Premier League)
- Major League Cricket: Official broadcaster for America’s domestic T20 league
- Live and Replay: Catch matches live or watch replays at your convenience
Willow cricket HD quality ensures you see every ball clearly — no grainy streams or buffering during crucial moments.
How to Access Willow TV USA:
| Willow TV Plan | Price | Platform | What You Get |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standalone Subscription | $9.99/month | Willow TV App/Website | All cricket content, HD quality |
| Prime Video Add-On | $9.99/month | Amazon Prime Video | Access through Prime interface |
| Cable/Satellite Bundle | Varies ($10-15) | Dish Network, Spectrum, Cox | Included in South Asian channel packages |
| Streaming Service Add-On | $10-15/month extra | Sling TV, Fubo, DirecTV Stream | Part of larger streaming bundle |
Willow TV subscription gives you peace of mind — no scrambling to find illegal streams, no worrying about matches suddenly cutting out. You pay once and get legitimate, high-quality cricket all month.
ESPN+: The Growing Cricket Platform
While Willow TV dominates, ESPN+ has emerged as a strong alternative, especially for budget-conscious fans.
What ESPN+ Offers:
- Many of the same tournaments Willow shows
- International bilateral series
- Select IPL matches
- T20 World Cup coverage
- Pakistan Super League
Pricing:
- $10.99/month standalone
- $109.99/year (saves about $20 annually)
- Bundled with Disney+ and Hulu for $14.99/month
Why Choose ESPN+:
If you already subscribe to ESPN+ for other sports (UFC, soccer, baseball), adding cricket coverage makes it excellent value. However, Willow TV still has more comprehensive cricket-specific content.
Streaming Platforms: Modern Ways to Watch Cricket in USA
Most American cord-cutters prefer streaming services over traditional cable. Here are the best options for cricket fans:
1. Sling TV: The Budget-Friendly Cricket Solution
Sling TV makes cricket accessible without breaking the bank.
Cricket Packages:
Desi Flex Pack:
- Price: $10/month
- Includes: 15 Indian TV channels including Willow cricket channel live streaming
- Perfect for: Hindi-speaking audiences who want Bollywood channels plus cricket
Desi Binge Plus:
- Price: $15/month
- Includes: Same live channels plus extensive on-demand Indian content
- Perfect for: Families wanting entertainment beyond just cricket
Why Sling TV Works:
- No contracts — cancel anytime
- Works on all devices (TV, phone, tablet, computer)
- Willow cricket HD quality streaming
- Easy interface designed for American viewers
- 3-day free trial to test before committing
2. Fubo: The Sports-First Streaming Service
Fubo positions itself as the ultimate sports streaming platform, and cricket fits that mission.
How Fubo Handles Cricket:
- Base subscription: $79.99/month
- Cricket requires Sports Plus add-on: $6.99/month extra
- Total cost: $86.98/month
What You Get Beyond Cricket:
Fubo includes:
- 100+ channels
- NFL, NBA, MLB, NHL, soccer
- Local channels (ABC, CBS, NBC, FOX)
- Cloud DVR to record matches
- 4K streaming quality
Best For:
Sports fans who want everything — cricket, American sports, international soccer — in one subscription.
Trial Period: 7-day free trial
3. DirecTV Stream: Premium Cable Replacement
DirecTV Stream offers Willow TV through its Sports Pack add-on.
Pricing Structure:
- Base plan: $79.99/month
- Sports Pack add-on: $14.99/month extra
- Total: $94.98/month
What the Sports Pack Includes:
- Willow TV USA for cricket
- NFL Network
- CBS Sports Network
- Regional sports networks
- Multiple channels for comprehensive sports coverage
Best For:
Households replacing traditional cable who want premium content including cricket.
Trial Period: 5-day free trial
4. YuppTV: The South Asian Specialist
YuppTV focuses specifically on South Asian content, making it perfect for cricket fans.
Pricing:
- Starting at $9.99/month
- Flexible plans based on regions and content preferences
- Available across North America, Europe, Middle East
Cricket Coverage:
- IPL (Indian Premier League)
- ICC tournaments
- Bilateral series featuring India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh
- Domestic Indian cricket
Unique Advantage:
YuppTV works globally, so if you travel frequently, your subscription follows you (subject to regional licensing).
How to Watch Cricket Through Apps: The Mobile-First Approach
Most cricket fans now watch on phones, tablets, or streaming devices rather than traditional TV.
Top Cricket Apps for US Viewers:
Willow TV App
- Available on: iOS, Android, Amazon Fire TV, Roku, Apple TV
- Willow TV subscription works across all devices
- Download matches for offline viewing
- Set notifications for favorite teams
- Switch seamlessly between live and replay
Why the App Matters:
You’re not always home when matches happen. Morning India matches start at 3-4 AM Eastern time. The app lets you watch during your commute, at lunch breaks, or anywhere with internet.
ESPN App
- Included with ESPN+ subscription
- Works on all major platforms
- Integrated with other ESPN content
- Good for fans who follow multiple sports
Streaming Service Apps
All the services mentioned (Sling TV, Fubo, DirecTV Stream) have dedicated apps that work beautifully on:
- Smart TVs (Samsung, LG, Sony)
- Streaming devices (Roku, Fire Stick, Apple TV, Chromecast)
- Gaming consoles (Xbox, PlayStation)
- Mobile devices (iOS, Android)
Watching Cricket with VPN: Accessing International Streams
Sometimes the best cricket coverage isn’t available in the USA. That’s where VPNs (Virtual Private Networks) become useful.
How VPNs Work for Cricket:
A VPN makes it appear like you’re browsing from a different country. This lets you access streaming platforms that normally block American viewers.
Why Use a VPN for Cricket:
- Better Coverage: Some international broadcasters show matches not available in the US
- Free Content: BBC iPlayer (UK) occasionally shows cricket for free
- Language Options: Watch Hindi commentary from India, Urdu from Pakistan
- Cost Savings: International subscriptions sometimes cheaper than US options
Best VPNs for Cricket Streaming
1. ExpressVPN
- Price: $12.95/month (or $99.95/year)
- Servers: 94 countries
- Speed: Excellent for HD streaming
- Devices: 5 simultaneous connections
- Trial: 30-day money-back guarantee
2. NordVPN
- Price: $11.99/month (or $59.88/year with discount)
- Servers: 60+ countries
- Speed: Very fast, minimal buffering
- Devices: 6 simultaneous connections
- Trial: 30-day money-back guarantee
3. Surfshark
- Price: $12.95/month (or $59.76 for 2 years)
- Servers: 100+ countries
- Speed: Good for streaming
- Devices: Unlimited connections
- Best for: Families sharing one subscription
International Cricket Platforms to Access Via VPN
| Platform | Country | What It Shows | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Disney+ Hotstar | India | IPL, Indian cricket, ICC tournaments | ₹299/month (~$3.60) |
| BBC iPlayer | UK | Select international matches, highlights | Free (license needed) |
| 9Now | Australia | Big Bash League, Australian cricket | Free |
| Kayo Sports | Australia | BBL, Australian internationals, cricket | $25 AUD/month |
| Sky Sports | UK/NZ | International cricket, tournaments | £34/month |
| SuperSport | South Africa | Cricket from South Africa, tournaments | R299/month |
How to Use VPN for Cricket:
- Subscribe to a VPN service
- Download and install VPN app
- Connect to server in target country (e.g., connect to UK server for BBC iPlayer)
- Open streaming platform
- Watch cricket as if you’re in that country
Legal Note: Using VPNs to access geo-restricted content falls into a gray area. While not explicitly illegal, it may violate streaming services’ terms of service. Use at your own discretion.
How to Watch Cricket in USA Reddit: The Fan Community Resource
Reddit has become an invaluable resource for cricket fans in America.
Useful Cricket Subreddits:
r/Cricket (2M+ members)
The main hub for global cricket discussion:
- Match threads for every international game
- Live updates and commentary
- Post-match discussions
- Memes and highlights
- News and analysis
How It Helps US Fans:
- Find out which platform shows specific matches
- Get timezone conversions for match timings
- Discover streaming options others recommend
- Ask questions and get real answers from experienced fans
r/MajorLeagueCricket
Dedicated to American domestic cricket:
- MLC match schedules
- Team discussions
- Where to watch locally
- Growing cricket culture in USA
Where to Watch Cricket by Tournament?: Complete Guide
Different tournaments stream on different platforms. Here’s your complete reference:
| Tournament | Primary Platform(s) | Alternative Options | Availability |
|---|---|---|---|
| IPL 2025 | Willow TV, Sling TV | ESPN+, YuppTV | Live + Replay |
| T20 World Cup 2026 | Willow TV, ESPN+ | — | Live + Highlights |
| Cricket World Cup 2027 | Willow TV, ESPN+ | — | Live Coverage |
| Pakistan Super League (PSL) | Willow TV, ESPN+ | YuppTV | Live |
| Big Bash League (BBL) | Willow TV | Kayo Sports via VPN | Live + Replay |
| Caribbean Premier League (CPL) | Willow TV, Fubo | ESPN+ | Live |
| Major League Cricket (MLC) | Willow cricket HD, Fubo | Local sports networks | Live + Extended |
| The Ashes 2025 | Willow TV, ESPN+ | — | Live + Highlights |
| Asia Cup | ESPN+, Willow TV | — | Live |
| India vs Pakistan (Bilateral) | Willow TV | ESPN+ | Live |
| England Cricket | Willow TV, ESPN+ | Sky Sports via VPN | Live |
| Australia Cricket | Willow TV | 9Now, Kayo via VPN | Live |
Pro Tip: Subscribe to Willow TV subscription for the most comprehensive coverage. Add ESPN+ if you want backup options and other sports content.
Tips to Avoid Streaming Issues During Matches
Nothing ruins a tense cricket match like buffering during the final over. Here’s how to ensure smooth streaming:
Internet Speed Requirements
- Standard Definition (SD): 3 Mbps minimum
- High Definition (HD): 5 Mbps minimum
- 4K/Ultra HD: 25 Mbps minimum
Test Your Speed: Use speedtest.net before matches to verify your connection.
Optimization Tips
1. Use Wired Connection When Possible
Wi-Fi is convenient but less stable:
- Ethernet cable provides consistent speeds
- Eliminates interference from other devices
- Reduces buffering significantly
2. Close Background Apps
Streaming cricket while downloading files causes problems:
- Pause downloads during matches
- Close Netflix, YouTube on other devices
- Limit devices connected to Wi-Fi
3. Restart Your Router
Simple but effective:
- Unplug router for 30 seconds
- Plug back in and wait for full restart
- Often fixes mysterious connection issues
4. Lower Video Quality if Needed
Willow cricket HD looks beautiful, but if buffering occurs:
- Switch to standard definition temporarily
- Better to watch smoothly in SD than buffering in HD
- Most apps let you manually adjust quality
5. Position Router Strategically
If using Wi-Fi:
- Keep router central in home
- Minimize walls between router and streaming device
- Elevate router off the floor
- Keep away from microwaves and other interference
6. Close Unnecessary Browser Tabs
When streaming on computer:
- Each tab uses memory and bandwidth
- Close everything except the stream
- Use incognito mode to prevent extensions from interfering
7. Update Your Apps and Devices
Outdated software causes problems:
- Update streaming apps regularly
- Keep device operating systems current
- Restart devices before important matches
Free Trials and Budget-Friendly Options
Not ready to commit to paid subscriptions? Several options let you test services first.
Willow TV Free Trial
Willow TV itself doesn’t offer a direct free trial on its standalone subscription. However, you can access Willow TV free trial through:
Amazon Prime Video Add-On:
- Prime Video offers 7-day free trials on channel subscriptions
- Add Willow TV channel to Prime
- Watch free for a week
- Cancel before trial ends to avoid charges
How to Do This:
- Log into Amazon Prime Video
- Search for “Willow TV”
- Subscribe to channel
- Enjoy free trial
- Set reminder to cancel before 7 days if not continuing
Streaming Service Free Trials
Sling TV:
- 3-day free trial
- Access Willow TV through Desi packages
- Perfect for testing a weekend of cricket
Fubo:
- 7-day free trial
- Add Sports Plus for Willow access
- Great for trying before IPL season
DirecTV Stream:
- 5-day free trial
- Includes Sports Pack with Willow
- Test during a tournament
Strategy for Major Tournaments:
If you only want to watch one tournament (like IPL or T20 World Cup):
- Time your free trial to start when the tournament begins
- Watch for a trial period (3-7 days)
- Subscribe for 1-2 months to finish the tournament
- Cancel subscription when the tournament ends
- Total cost: $10-30 instead of a year-round subscription
Budget Options Summary
| Service | Monthly Cost | Free Trial | Cricket Access | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Willow Standalone | $9.99 | No (via Prime) | Comprehensive cricket | Dedicated cricket fans |
| Sling Desi Flex | $10.00 | 3 days | Willow + Indian channels | Budget-conscious Indian fans |
| ESPN+ | $10.99 | 7 days | Select cricket tournaments | Multi-sport fans |
| YuppTV | $9.99 | Varies | South Asian cricket focus | India/Pakistan cricket fans |
| Fubo + Sports Plus | $86.98 | 7 days | Willow + all other sports | Complete sports package seekers |
Cheapest Legal Option: Sling TV Desi Flex at $10/month gives you Willow cricket channel live streaming plus other entertainment.
Watching Cricket at Local Venues and Pubs
Beyond home streaming, consider these options:
Sports Bars and Restaurants
Some establishments cater to cricket fans:
Finding Cricket-Friendly Bars:
- Search “cricket bar near me” or “Indian sports bar”
- Call ahead to confirm they show cricket
- Many Indian, Pakistani, and Caribbean restaurants have Willow TV
- Request that they put matches on TV
Benefits:
- Social atmosphere
- Meet other cricket fans
- Food and drinks are available
- Big screens for better viewing
Popular Cricket-Watching Cities:
- New York (Edison, Jersey City)
- San Francisco Bay Area (Fremont, Milpitas)
- Chicago suburbs
- Houston (Sugar Land)
- Dallas (Plano, Irving)
- Los Angeles (Artesia, Cerritos)
- Seattle area
Cricket Clubs and Watch Parties
Major League Cricket has created cricket culture hubs:
- MLC franchises organize watch parties
- Cricket clubs host viewing events
- Universities with large international student populations
- Community centers in areas with large South Asian populations
Finding Watch Parties:
- Check the MLC team’s social media
- Search Facebook for cricket groups in your city
- Look for cricket leagues and clubs
- Join local South Asian community organizations
Understanding What You’re Watching: Quick Cricket Primer
For American newcomers to cricket:
Three Main Formats:
Test Cricket (5 days):
- Longest format
- Two innings per team
- Traditional, strategic
- Like baseball’s season series
One Day International (ODI) (8 hours):
- Each team plays 50 overs
- Complete match in one day
- Like a baseball doubleheader
T20 (3 hours):
- Each team plays 20 overs
- Fast-paced, exciting
- Like basketball or hockey — constant action
- Most popular in the USA
Most US streaming focuses on T20 because it fits American sports viewing habits — quick, exciting, and over in one evening.
Troubleshooting Common Problems
Problem: “This content is not available in your region”
Solution:
- You’re trying to access an international platform
- Use VPN and connect to the appropriate country
- Or switch to a US-based service (Willow TV, ESPN+)
Problem: Constant buffering during matches
Solution:
- Check internet speed (need 5+ Mbps for HD)
- Close other apps and devices
- Switch to wired connection
- Lower video quality temporarily
- Restart router and streaming device
Problem: Match times are confusing
Solution:
- India matches often start very early morning US time (2-4 AM Eastern)
- Australia/New Zealand matches start late evening US time
- Caribbean matches are convenient afternoon/evening
- Use time zone converters
- Set DVR or watch replays
Problem: Can’t find a specific match
Solution:
- Check the tournament schedule on the Willow TV website
- Not all bilateral series are broadcast in the USA
- How to watch cricket in USA Reddit communities post schedules
- Follow ESPNCricInfo for comprehensive schedules
The Future of Cricket in America
Cricket’s American future looks bright:
Major League Cricket Growth:
- Six teams currently
- Expanding to more cities
- Multi-million dollar investments
- Attracting international stars
- Building cricket-specific stadiums
Broadcasting Evolution:
- More mainstream networks are showing interest
- Better streaming quality
- More affordable options
- Integration with existing sports packages
Why This Matters:
As cricket grows in America:
- More platforms will compete for rights
- Prices may become more competitive
- Mainstream sports networks may pick up coverage
- Easier access for all fans
Conclusion: Willow TV Remains the Best Choice for How to Watch Cricket in USA
After exploring every option, here’s the reality: Willow TV is still the most reliable, comprehensive solution for how to watch cricket in USA.
Why Willow TV Wins:
- ✅ Comprehensive Coverage — IPL, World Cups, PSL, BBL, CPL, bilateral series
- ✅ Reliable Streaming — Professional broadcasts, not illegal streams
- ✅ HD Quality — Willow cricket HD looks beautiful
- ✅ Multiple Access Points — Standalone, Prime Video, cable bundles, streaming services
- ✅ Reasonable Pricing — $9.99/month for a dedicated cricket channel
- ✅ Major League Cricket — Official broadcaster of America’s domestic league
But There Are Alternatives:
- ESPN+ for budget-conscious multi-sport fans
- Sling TV for those wanting Indian entertainment plus cricket
- Fubo for complete sports packages
- VPN + International Services for specific tournament access
Final Recommendation:
- For serious cricket fans: Get Willow TV subscription — either standalone or through Sling TV’s Desi Flex Pack. It’s $10/month for peace of mind and comprehensive coverage.
- For casual fans: Try ESPN+ first at $10.99/month. If you find it lacks the coverage you want, upgrade to Willow.
- For tournament-only viewers: Use free trials strategically during IPL or World Cups, then cancel until the next big tournament.
- For tech-savvy international content seekers: Invest in a good VPN ($100/year) and rotate through international platforms for the best coverage at the lowest cost.
The bottom line? Cricket in America is more accessible than ever.
Whether you’re watching Virat Kohli smash sixes in the IPL, rooting for Team USA in international competitions, or following Major League Cricket’s growth, you have options to watch every ball legally and reliably.
Pick your platform, grab some snacks, and enjoy the beautiful chaos that is cricket. Welcome to the game that captivates billions — now available right here in the USA.
