by Cricket is exploding in America.
A decade ago, finding live cricket matches in the USA felt nearly impossible. You’d rely on shaky illegal streams or wake up at 3 AM hoping some obscure cable channel was showing a match.
Not anymore.
Thanks to tournaments like the Indian Premier League (IPL), the T20 World Cup, and America’s own Major League Cricket (MLC), millions of Americans are discovering why cricket is the world’s second-most-popular sport.
Stadiums in Texas and California are selling out. Bars in New Jersey and Illinois are packed with fans watching India vs Pakistan matches.
But here’s the problem: figuring out how to watch cricket in USA can still be confusing.
Different tournaments appear on different platforms. Streaming services have complicated bundles. International apps block American viewers.
How to Watch Cricket in USA?
This guide solves all that confusion. Whether you’re a lifelong cricket fan from South Asia now living in America, or a curious American discovering the sport for the first time.
This step-by-step guide covers everything: TV channels, streaming apps, mobile options, VPN solutions, free trials, Reddit communities, and exactly where to watch every major tournament.
Let’s break it down simply, so you never miss another match.
Why Watching Cricket in USA Used to Be Hard (But Isn’t Anymore)
The Old Days:
- Only one dedicated cricket channel (Willow TV)
- Expensive cable packages required
- Limited tournament coverage
- No streaming options
- Most matches not broadcast at all
Now in 2025:
- Multiple streaming platforms compete for cricket rights
- Affordable monthly subscriptions ($10-15)
- Mobile apps let you watch anywhere
- Major League Cricket brings live matches to American cities
- International platforms accessible via VPN
- Reddit communities help fans find every match
The Result: Cricket is now as easy to watch in America as football, basketball, or baseball.
The Best TV Option: Willow TV USA Explained Simply
Let’s start with the easiest, most comprehensive solution: Willow TV.
What Is Willow TV?
Willow TV USA is America’s dedicated cricket channel. Think of it like the NFL Network for football, but for cricket. The entire channel exists to show cricket matches, cricket highlights, cricket analysis, and cricket documentaries.
What Does Willow TV Show?
✅ Indian Premier League (IPL) — Cricket’s biggest league
✅ ICC Tournaments — T20 World Cup, Cricket World Cup, Champions Trophy
✅ Pakistan Super League (PSL) — Pakistan’s T20 league
✅ Big Bash League (BBL) — Australia’s T20 league
✅ Caribbean Premier League (CPL) — Caribbean T20 cricket
✅ Major League Cricket (MLC) — America’s domestic T20 league
✅ International Series — Matches between India, Pakistan, Australia, England, South Africa, etc.
✅ Test Cricket — Traditional 5-day matches (occasionally)
Why Willow TV Is the Best:
- Comprehensive coverage — Shows more cricket than any other US platform
- Willow cricket HD quality — Crystal clear picture, professional broadcasts
- Willow cricket channel live streaming — Watch on TV, phone, tablet, or computer
- No contracts — Subscribe month-to-month, cancel anytime
- Reliable — No sketchy streams that suddenly stop working
Willow TV Subscription: Price Options Explained
How Much Does Willow TV Cost?
| Service | Price | What You Get | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Willow TV App (Standalone) | $9.99/month | All cricket content works on all devices | Cricket-only fans |
| Willow on Amazon Prime | $9.99/month | Add-on to Prime Video, same content | Prime Video users |
| Cable Bundle (Dish, etc.) | Varies | Included in South Asian channel packages | Traditional cable subscribers |
| Sling TV (Desi Package) | $10/month | Willow + 15 Indian channels | Budget option with extra content |
| Fubo (Sports Plus) | $86.98/month | Willow + 100+ other channels | Complete sports package seekers |
- The Cheapest Way: Willow TV standalone app at $9.99/month gives you everything. Download the app, pay $10, watch every match. Simple.
- The Best Value: Sling TV Desi Flex Pack at $10/month includes Willow TV plus 15 Indian entertainment channels (Bollywood movies, news, shows). Perfect for South Asian households.
How to Watch Cricket in USA on TV: Traditional Broadcasting
For fans who prefer watching cricket on their television rather than phones or laptops:
Cable and Satellite Options
Dish Network:
- Willow TV is available in South Asian packages
- Channel number varies by package
- HD quality available
- Contact Dish to add cricket channels
DirecTV:
- Willow TV in Sports Pack add-on
- Base plan + Sports Pack required
- 5-day free trial for new customers
- HD quality available
Spectrum/Cox/Other Cable:
- Availability varies by region
- Usually part of the international channel tier
- Call your cable provider to confirm
- Some areas don’t carry Willow TV
The Reality: Traditional cable is the most expensive way to get cricket. Unless you already have cable, streaming services make more sense.
Best Streaming Apps for Cricket in USA
Most American cricket fans now use streaming apps. Here’s every option explained simply:
1. ESPN+ — The Budget Alternative
Cost: $10.99/month (or $109.99/year)
What It Shows:
- Select IPL matches
- Some ICC tournaments
- Pakistan Super League
- International bilateral series
- Not as comprehensive as Willow TV
Pros: ✅ Slightly cheaper than Willow
✅ Also includes UFC, soccer, baseball
✅ 7-day free trial
✅ Good app on all devices
Cons: ❌ Doesn’t show all cricket
❌ Less cricket-specific content
❌ Sometimes conflicts with other ESPN programming
Best For: Sports fans who want cricket plus other sports (soccer, UFC, hockey) in one affordable package.
2. Sling TV — Best Value for Cricket Fans
Cost: $10/month (Desi Flex Pack)
What You Get:
- Willow cricket channel live streaming is included
- 15 Indian TV channels (Sony, Star, Zee, etc.)
- Bollywood movies
- Hindi news and entertainment
- Works on all devices
Pros: ✅ Cheapest way to get Willow TV
✅ Extra content for the whole family
✅ No contract — cancel anytime
✅ 3-day free trial
✅ Cloud DVR available
Cons: ❌ Desi Flex limited to 15 channels (upgrade to Desi Binge Plus for more)
Best For: South Asian families wanting cricket plus entertainment channels at the lowest price.
How to Get It:
- Go to Sling.com
- Choose the “International” section
- Select “Desi Flex Pack” or “Desi Binge Plus”
- Sign up and start watching
3. Fubo — The Premium Sports Package
Cost: $79.99/month base + $6.99/month Sports Plus = $86.98/month total
What You Get:
- Willow TV (through Sports Plus add-on)
- 100+ other channels (ABC, CBS, NBC, FOX, ESPN)
- NFL, NBA, MLB, NHL, soccer
- Cloud DVR with 1,000 hours of storage
- 4K streaming quality
Pros: ✅ Every sport imaginable
✅ Replaces cable completely
✅ Excellent app and interface
✅ 7-day free trial
✅ Watch on unlimited devices
Cons: ❌ Expensive if you only want cricket
❌ Requires Sports Plus add-on for Willow
Best For: Sports fanatics who want everything — cricket, American sports, soccer — in one premium package.
4. DirecTV Stream — Cable Replacement
Cost: $79.99/month base + $14.99/month Sports Pack = $94.98/month total
What You Get:
- Willow TV (through Sports Pack)
- NFL Network, CBS Sports, and regional sports
- 75+ other channels
- Cloud DVR
- Streaming on multiple devices
Pros: ✅ Most like traditional cable
✅ Lots of sports beyond cricket
✅ Reliable streaming quality
✅ 5-day free trial
Cons: ❌ Most expensive option
❌ Sports Pack required for Willow
❌ Overkill if you only want cricket
Best For: Households replacing cable who want premium everything, including cricket.
5. YuppTV — The South Asian Specialist
Cost: Starting at $9.99/month
What You Get:
- Live cricket (IPL, ICC tournaments, bilateral series)
- South Asian entertainment channels
- Regional language options
- Works globally (not just the USA)
Pros: ✅ Affordable
✅ South Asian focus
✅ Multiple language options
✅ Works when traveling
Cons: ❌ Not as comprehensive as Willow TV
❌ Some tournaments are missing
❌ Interface not as polished
Best For: South Asian cricket fans who want an affordable option with entertainment channels.
Quick Comparison: Which Streaming Service Should You Choose?
| If You Want… | Choose This | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Only cricket, nothing else | Willow TV standalone app | $9.99/month |
| Cricket + Indian entertainment | Sling TV Desi Flex Pack | $10/month |
| Cricket + all sports | Fubo with Sports Plus | $86.98/month |
| Cricket + other sports (UFC, soccer) | ESPN+ | $10.99/month |
| Premium everything (replacing cable) | DirecTV Stream with Sports Pack | $94.98/month |
| South Asian cricket + entertainment | YuppTV | $9.99/month |
Our Recommendation: Start with Willow TV standalone app ($9.99/month) or Sling TV Desi Flex ($10/month). Both are affordable and comprehensive.
Using a VPN to Watch Cricket from Other Countries
Sometimes the best cricket coverage isn’t available in America. That’s where VPNs help.
What Is a VPN?
A Virtual Private Network makes it look like you’re browsing the internet from a different country. This lets you access international streaming platforms that normally block American viewers.
Why Use a VPN for Cricket?
- Better coverage — Some international broadcasters show matches not available in the USA
- Cheaper options — International subscriptions sometimes cost less
- Free content — Some international platforms offer free cricket
- Language options — Watch Hindi commentary from India, Urdu from Pakistan
Best International Cricket Platforms (Accessed via VPN)
| Platform | Country | What It Shows | Cost | VPN Server Needed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Disney+ Hotstar | India | IPL, Indian cricket, ICC tournaments | ~$3.60/month | India |
| BBC iPlayer | UK | Select international matches | Free (UK license) | UK |
| 9Now | Australia | Big Bash League, Australian cricket | Free | Australia |
| Kayo Sports | Australia | BBL, international cricket | ~$20/month | Australia |
| Sky Sports | UK/NZ | International cricket tournaments | ~$35/month | UK |
| SuperSport | South Africa | South African cricket tournaments | ~$25/month | South Africa |
Recommended VPN Services
1. ExpressVPN
- Cost: $12.95/month (or $99.95/year)
- Servers: 94 countries
- Speed: Excellent for streaming
- Trial: 30-day money-back guarantee
2. NordVPN
- Cost: $11.99/month (or $59.88/year)
- Servers: 60+ countries
- Speed: Very fast
- Trial: 30-day money-back guarantee
3. Surfshark
- Cost: $12.95/month (or $59.76 for 2 years)
- Servers: 100+ countries
- Devices: Unlimited connections
- Best for: Families sharing a VPN
How to Watch Cricket with VPN (Step-by-Step)
- Subscribe to VPN service (ExpressVPN, NordVPN, etc.)
- Download VPN app on your device
- Connect to server in the target country (e.g., India for Hotstar)
- Open streaming platform (Hotstar, BBC iPlayer, etc.)
- Create account if needed (may need an international payment method)
- Watch cricket as if you’re in that country
Important Note: Using VPNs to access geo-restricted content exists in a legal gray area. While not illegal, it may violate streaming platforms’ terms of service. Use responsibly.
How to Watch Cricket in USA Reddit: The Fan Community
Reddit has become essential for American cricket fans.
Key Cricket Subreddits:
r/Cricket (2+ million members)
What You’ll Find:
- Live match threads with ball-by-ball updates
- Post-match discussions
- Highlights and memes
- News about players and tournaments
- Schedules with US timezone conversions
How It Helps:
- Find out which platform shows specific matches
- Get recommendations from other US-based fans
- Ask questions and get real answers
- Discover legal streaming options
r/MLC
Focus: America’s domestic T20 league
What You’ll Find:
- MLC match schedules
- Team discussions
- Local viewing options
- Growing cricket culture in the USA
r/CricketStreams (Use with Caution)
Warning: This subreddit often shares unauthorized streaming links.
Why to Avoid:
- Links violate copyright
- Often contain malware
- Poor quality streams
- Support piracy
Better Approach: Use Reddit to find out which legal platforms show matches, not to find illegal streams.
How Reddit Helps US Cricket Fans?
Match Schedules:
- Converts match times to US time zones
- Alerts about upcoming matches
- Tournament brackets and standings
Platform Information:
- “Where can I watch [specific match]?”
- Recommendations from other US fans
- Reviews of different streaming services
Community:
- Connect with other American cricket fans
- Learn cricket rules and strategies
- Discuss matches in real-time
Search Tip: Type “how to watch cricket in the USA Reddit” in Google to find the most helpful threads.
Where to Watch Each Major Tournament: Complete Guide
Different tournaments stream on different platforms. Here’s your complete reference:
| Tournament | Primary Platform | Alternative | Format | When |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| IPL (Indian Premier League) | Willow TV, Sling TV | ESPN+ | T20 | March-May |
| ICC T20 World Cup | Willow TV, ESPN+ | — | T20 | Every 2 years |
| ICC Cricket World Cup | Willow TV, ESPN+ | — | ODI | Every 4 years |
| Pakistan Super League (PSL) | Willow TV, ESPN+ | YuppTV | T20 | February-March |
| Big Bash League (BBL) | Willow TV | Kayo via VPN | T20 | December-February |
| Caribbean Premier League | Willow TV, Fubo | ESPN+ | T20 | August-September |
| Major League Cricket (MLC) | Willow cricket HD, Fubo | Regional networks | T20 | July-August |
| The Ashes | Willow TV, ESPN+ | — | Test | June-August |
| Asia Cup | ESPN+, Willow TV | — | ODI/T20 | September |
| India vs Pakistan | Willow TV | ESPN+ | Any | As scheduled |
| England Series | Willow TV, ESPN+ | Sky Sports via VPN | Any | Year-round |
| Australia Series | Willow TV | 9Now via VPN | Any | Year-round |
Key Takeaway: Willow TV subscription covers almost everything. Add ESPN+ if you want backup options.
Willow TV Free Trial: How to Test Before Subscribing
Wondering if Willow TV is worth it? Try it free first.
How to Get Willow TV Free Trial
Option 1: Amazon Prime Video Add-On (7 Days Free)
- Log into Amazon Prime Video
- Search for “Willow TV”
- Click “Subscribe to Channel”
- Get 7-day free trial automatically
- Watch cricket free for a week
- Cancel before 7 days to avoid charges
Option 2: Sling TV (3 Days Free)
- Go to Sling.com
- Select Desi Flex Pack or Desi Binge Plus
- Sign up with email and credit card
- Get 3-day free trial
- Cancel anytime within 3 days for no charge
Option 3: Fubo (7 Days Free)
- Visit Fubo.tv
- Start subscription with Sports Plus add-on
- 7-day free trial automatically applies
- Cancel before week ends to avoid payment
Strategic Use of Free Trials
For Major Tournaments:
If you only want to watch one tournament (like IPL or T20 World Cup):
- Time your trial to start when the tournament begins
- Watch for trial period (3-7 days)
- Subscribe for 1-2 months to finish the tournament
- Cancel after tournament ends
- Total cost: $10-30 instead of a year-round subscription
Example for IPL:
- IPL runs March-May (about 2 months)
- Start a 7-day free trial when IPL begins
- Subscribe for 2 months ($20 total)
- Cancel when IPL ends
- You watched the entire IPL for $20
Tips for Smooth Cricket Streaming (No Buffering!)
Nothing ruins a tense cricket match like buffering. Follow these tips:
Internet Speed Requirements
| Quality | Minimum Speed Needed |
|---|---|
| Standard Definition | 3 Mbps |
| High Definition (HD) | 5 Mbps |
| 4K / Ultra HD | 25 Mbps |
Check Your Speed: Visit Speedtest.net before matches to verify your connection.
7 Ways to Prevent Buffering
1. Use Wired Connection
- Ethernet cable is more reliable than Wi-Fi
- Eliminates interference from walls and other devices
- Reduces buffering by 70%+
2. Close Background Apps
- Stop downloads during matches
- Close Netflix, YouTube on other devices
- Limit devices connected to Wi-Fi
3. Restart Router Before Matches
- Unplug for 30 seconds
- Plug back in and let it restart fully
- Often fixes connection issues
4. Lower Video Quality if Needed
- Willow cricket HD looks beautiful, but if buffering:
- Switch to Standard Definition temporarily
- Better smooth SD than stuttering HD
5. Position Router Well
- Central location in home
- Elevated off floor
- Away from microwaves and walls
6. Update Apps and Devices
- Keep streaming apps current
- Update device software
- Restart devices before big matches
7. Test Before Match Starts
- Open stream 10-15 minutes early
- Make sure everything works
- Troubleshoot before first ball
Match Time Confusion? Here’s Help
Common Cricket Match Times (US Eastern Time):
- India matches: Often 3-4 AM (very early morning)
- Australia/New Zealand: Late evening (8-11 PM)
- Caribbean: Afternoon/evening (2-6 PM)
- England: Morning/early afternoon (10 AM-2 PM)
- Major League Cricket: Evening (6-9 PM)
Solution: Use timezone converters or check Willow TV schedule page for exact US times.
Watching Cricket on Mobile Devices
Most fans now watch on phones and tablets.
Best Apps for Mobile Cricket:
Willow TV App:
- Available: iOS, Android
- Download matches for offline viewing
- Set notifications for favorite teams
- Switch between live and replay
- Picture-in-picture mode
ESPN App:
- Included with ESPN+ subscription
- Works on iOS and Android
- Good interface and features
Sling TV App:
- Watch Willow through Sling
- Cloud DVR access
- Works on all mobile devices
Data Usage Warning: Streaming cricket uses significant data:
- Standard quality: ~1 GB per hour
- HD quality: ~3 GB per hour
- Use Wi-Fi when possible to avoid data charges
Watching Cricket at Sports Bars and Restaurants
Want to watch with other fans? Try local venues.
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 specific matches on their TVs
Best Cities for Cricket Bars:
- New York (Edison, Jersey City)
- San Francisco Bay Area (Fremont)
- Chicago suburbs
- Houston (Sugar Land)
- Dallas (Plano, Irving)
- Los Angeles (Artesia)
Benefits of Bar Watching:
- Big screens
- Social atmosphere
- Meet other cricket fans
- Food and drinks are available
- No setup required
Understanding Cricket Formats (Quick Primer)
For newcomers, cricket has 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 in one day
- Like a baseball doubleheader
T20 (3 Hours):
- Each team plays 20 overs
- Fast-paced, exciting
- Most popular in USA
- Like basketball — constant action
Most US streaming focuses on T20 because it fits American viewing habits — quick, exciting, over in an evening.
Troubleshooting Common Problems
Problem: “This content is not available in your region”
Solution:
- You’re trying international platform
- Use VPN and connect to appropriate country
- Or switch to US service (Willow, ESPN+)
Problem: Constant buffering
Solution:
- Check internet speed (need 5+ Mbps)
- Close other apps and devices
- Use wired connection
- Lower video quality
- Restart router and device
Problem: Can’t find specific match
Solution:
- Check Willow TV website schedule
- Not all series broadcast in USA
- How to watch cricket in USA Reddit communities post schedules
- Follow ESPNCricInfo for comprehensive schedules
Problem: Match times confusing
Solution:
- India matches start very early morning (3-4 AM)
- Use timezone converters
- Set DVR or watch replays
- Check Willow TV schedule in US timezones
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
- Cricket-specific stadiums being built
Why This Matters:
- More platforms will compete for rights
- Prices may become more competitive
- Mainstream networks showing interest
- Easier access for all fans
Final Recommendation: How to Watch Cricket in USA Simply
After exploring every option, here’s what to do:
- For Serious Cricket Fans:
Get Willow TV subscription — either standalone ($9.99/month) or through Sling TV Desi Flex Pack ($10/month). This covers virtually all cricket shown in America.
- For Casual Fans:
Try ESPN+ first ($10.99/month). If you find it lacks the coverage you want, upgrade to Willow.
- For Budget Viewers:
Use free trials strategically during big tournaments (IPL, T20 World Cup), then cancel until the next major event.
- For International Content Seekers:
Invest in a good VPN ($100/year) and access international platforms for comprehensive global coverage.
Conclusion: Cricket in America Is Now Easy to Watch
The question of how to watch cricket in USA no longer has a complicated answer.
Willow TV remains the gold standard — comprehensive coverage, reliable streaming, Willow cricket HD quality, and affordable at $9.99/month. Add platforms like ESPN+, Sling TV, and Fubo for even more options.
Whether you’re watching Virat Kohli dominate in the IPL, cheering for Team USA in international competitions, or following Major League Cricket’s growth, you have multiple legal, reliable ways to watch every ball.
Cricket in America has arrived. The streaming options are here. The community is growing.
Pick your platform, invite some friends over, grab snacks, and enjoy the beautiful chaos that is cricket — now fully accessible right here in the USA.
Welcome to the game that captivates billions. Your seat is ready. The match is about to begin.
