Shanghai to Host Inaugural World Championship of Cricket Aiming to Boost Cricket in China

Shanghai, November 12 (Daily Kiran) : A new chapter for cricket in China is set to unfold as Shanghai prepares to host the inaugural World Championship of Cricket (WCC) in May 2027. This franchise-based league aims to tap into the country’s burgeoning cricket audience.

The WCC, in collaboration with Dongyuehui Sports, will feature eight teams comprising several former international stars. This initiative marks the first of its kind in China, reflecting the nation’s growing interest in the sport.

Cricket is set to make its Olympic debut at the Los Angeles 2028 Games, prompting China to enhance its cricketing capabilities. The country is keen to improve its standing in the sport, especially with the increasing participation in multi-sport events.

In October 2026, a memorandum of understanding was signed between WCC and Dongyuehui Sports, which operates the Shaxixi Town Cricket Center in Jiangsu Province. The partnership aims to foster cricket’s development in China.

Praveen Sharma, chairman of WCC, and Yonghui Tong, chairman of Dongyuehui Sports, expressed their commitment to creating a world-class cricketing experience. They emphasized the sport’s unique ability to connect people across cultures and borders. “This agreement is a significant milestone in turning our vision into reality,” they stated.

Amandeep Singh, the founder of WCC, expressed excitement over bringing the tournament to China. He highlighted the goal of providing fans with the opportunity to see renowned cricketers in action, while also introducing new audiences to the sport’s excitement.

The league will benefit from local expertise in infrastructure developed by Dongyuehui Sports, aiming to bring world-class cricket closer to China. Yonghui Tong views this initiative as a step toward establishing China as a venue for major international sporting events, with the Shaxixi Town Cricket Center positioned as the leading home for cricket in the country.

The league will also provide opportunities for Chinese cricketers to interact with former international players, some of whom have competed in World Cups. Additionally, WCC is opening doors for private investors and investment funds to engage in cricket’s expansion in China through franchise ownership, strategic partnerships, and commercial investments.