For the first time in history, Times Square turned into a cricket pitch as part of the India Day celebrations organized by Cricmax Connect and the Federation of Indian Associations (FIA).
The three-day festivities began on August 15, 2025, with a flag-hoisting ceremony at the Consulate General of India in New York. Community leaders and dignitaries joined the event, where U.S. national players Saiteja Mukkamalla and Jessy Singh were felicitated. Later that afternoon, Indian film star Vijay Deverakonda, along with representatives of Cricmax Connect and FIA, participated in the ceremonial lighting of the Empire State Building in the Indian tricolour.
On August 16, 2025, the celebrations reached their peak at Times Square. Vijay Deverakonda led a spirited flag hoisting, joined by FIA members and the community. Adding to the pride, U.S. national players Sai Mukkamalla, Yasir Mohammed, and Smit Patel also took part, reflecting the growing presence of cricket in America.
The most iconic moment came when, for the very first time, a cricket match was played at Times Square. In the symbolic opening, Consul General Amb. Binaya Srikanta Pradhan faced the first ball bowled by Mr. Satnam Singh Sandhu. What began as a ceremonial gesture soon turned into a lively celebration as U.S. players, leaders, children, and visitors picked up the bat and ball, filling Manhattan with the spirit of cricket.
The crowd — including Indian Americans, cricket enthusiasts, and curious New Yorkers — cheered as the game unfolded. For many, watching cricket live in one of the world’s most famous locations was a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
“Cricmax Connect was created to build a strong grassroots foundation for cricket in the U.S.,” said Vinay Bhimjiani, Founder & CEO of Cricmax Connect. “To witness cricket being played for the first time at Times Square is not only historic but also symbolic of the sport’s rise here. Our vision is to make cricket part of America’s sporting culture, and this moment shows the future has never looked brighter.”
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