Arora recalled his early days playing cricket and watching the sport after moving to the US. “It’s part of our DNA, you can’t take cricket out of us,” he said, reflecting on his deep connection to the game. He envisions a future where cricket gains prominence in the US sporting landscape. “It’s a dream coming together to have a cricket league of our own,” he added.
The rise of cricket in the US is already underway with Major League Cricket (MLC), which launched in 2023, attracting international stars and local talents. With the growing South Asian community, which shares an inherent love for the game, the potential for cricket to become mainstream is increasing.
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Additionally, the sport’s expanding fanbase and commercial appeal are attracting significant interest from investors, including venture capitalists.
Arora’s enthusiasm for cricket is matched by his optimism about the Indian startup ecosystem. He highlighted how India has become a hub for innovation, with companies like ShareChat leading the charge in tech advancements.
His broader investment strategy for General Catalyst includes supporting early-stage companies across sectors such as healthcare and fintech, both of which show immense potential in India.
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While cricket might still be considered a passion project, Arora’s drive to foster its growth in the US reflects a broader ambition to support diverse ventures. Along with nearly half a billion dollars in planned investments, General Catalyst is set to back initiatives that provide financial returns and promote cultural and social development, like the rise of cricket in America.
