Cricket

The United States' World Cup journey has come to an end, but the team's aspirations for improvement remain strong. After two decisive defeats in Barbados, USA allrounder Harmeet Singh has emphasized the urgent need for enhanced outdoor infrastructure to elevate the team's performance.Singh believes that the lack of adequate outdoor training facilities has hindered the team's progress. "We need the whole system in place," he said. "Trainers need to be able to work with us all year even if remotely. We need a lot more outdoor set-ups, need good training facilities."The absence of outdoor infrastructure has particularly affected batters, who have struggled to adjust to slower pitches after training indoors. Singh highlighted the need for grassroots development and a strong bench strength, which can only be achieved through improved training facilities.While franchise cricket can provide opportunities for a select few, Singh emphasized the importance of investing in infrastructure to foster a cricket-playing nation. "The cricketing community is large, especially in Texas, New Jersey, and Seattle," he said. "But we don't have enough turf practice facilities everywhere."Singh also acknowledged the need for a shift in mindset among players. "Kids when they practice indoor, they go outdoors straight away on turf pitches, and there's no feet, nothing," he said. "So all that needs to change."The team's recent performances have generated excitement among the Asian diaspora, but Singh believes it is crucial to capitalize on this momentum by providing the necessary infrastructure. "The work starts now," he said. "Not tomorrow, the work starts now in our heads. We need to think how we are going to be at the 2026 World Cup."USA Cricket must provide the team with ample games and training opportunities, while players must commit to personal development. By addressing the infrastructure deficit and fostering a culture of excellence, the United States can aspire to achieve greater success in the future.