(Source Insidesport)
India’s debut match in the 2024 T20 World Cup against Ireland in New York witnessed numerous empty seats, largely attributed to the ICC’s inflated pricing and subdued marketing efforts. While the grandstands saw decent attendance, the premium North and South stands, priced at around $1,000, remained largely vacant. This resulted in a less-than-ideal broadcast experience, with many empty seats visible around the sight screen at both ends.
In contrast to the 2023 World Cup in India, official attendance figures for the ongoing T20 World Cup have not been disclosed yet. However, it’s estimated that there were slightly over 20,000 fans present for India’s opening match. Unfortunately, many attendees expressed dissatisfaction with the arrangements and facilities provided for the price they paid. The ICC must elevate its efforts to ensure a packed house for the much-anticipated India vs Pakistan match on June 9 at the same venue.
As of June 6, tickets for the match are still available, with plenty of seats in the Diamond Club ($10,000), Corner Clubs ($2,750), and Premium Club Lounge ($2,500) categories remaining unsold. These are the same premium seats that saw limited interest during the India-Ireland game, despite being priced lower.
The ICC recently made additional General Admission tickets available for the highly anticipated clash, but if they are unable to fill the stadium, the decision to host the World Cup in the USA could be deemed a failure. With three out of four of India’s group games slated for New York, the organizers’ challenges in attracting crowds for these matches underscore why the hurried effort, lacking a comprehensive plan and effective marketing strategy, has faltered.
“A lot depends on India vs Pakistan fixture. ICC will be left embarrassed if they don’t manage to fill up the stadium for the marquee clash. The success of USA leg is majorly dependent on that match and there is now very little time left for the ICC to turn things around. I am sure the top brass will be very worried at the moment,” says an industry source tracking developments.
The India vs Pakistan match remains the most coveted fixture in cricket, evident from the massive attendance at their previous encounters. During the 2022 T20 World Cup at the MCG and the 2023 ODI World Cup at Narendra Modi Stadium, over 90,000 and 100,000 spectators filled the stands respectively.
While cricket enthusiasts are focused on New York, not many are concerned about events happening in Florida or Dallas. The condition of the pitch, outfield, and logistical challenges at the Nassau County International Cricket Stadium has dominated discussions, and the sight of empty seats during India’s matches will only amplify these concerns.
Social media has been buzzing with ticket-related activity for the India vs Pakistan match, but surprisingly, there are more sellers than buyers. If this trend persists, stakeholders, particularly broadcasters like Star Sports (for linear broadcast) and Disney+ Hotstar (for digital broadcast), who have invested significantly in media rights for the current cycle, will likely have some challenging inquiries for the global governing body.
