The World Cricket Connect (WCC) conference was held at Lord's, a venue that symbolizes the rich cricket heritage. The Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC) extended invites to individuals from all over the cricket world to discuss the game's future. To keep pace with changing times, the formal dress code at Lord's was done away with, no jacket and tie necessary this time. MCC clearly stated that WCC was not meant for rulemaking but for exchanging ideas that had the potential to help determine cricket's future. The occasion witnessed popular names such as Barry Richards, Mike Atherton, Andrew Strauss, Sourav Ganguly, Kumar Sangakkara, Kane Williamson, and Pat Cummins participating in conversations. A strong WCA delegation attended World Cricket Connects, hosted by @MCCOfficial at @HomeOfCricket on the weekend. 👉 https://t.co/8kCZc92K7hPhoto Credit: Lord’s Cricket Ground pic.twitter.com/bGSMBBS3r1 — World Cricketers' Association (@WCA_Players) June 10, 2025 Also Read | Kane Williamson’s New Fab Four Features Two Rising Indian Stars Key Topics and Honest Talks The talks focused on major issues such as how to manage all three formats (Test, ODI, T20), the rise of franchise leagues, the future of Test cricket, and how to better connect with fans. Some tough questions were asked: Can all formats survive together? Should we still try to save Test cricket? What do fans want from cricket? How can the game grow in new places? Many agreed that cricket offers variety, which is good, but the schedule needs work. Matches with no real meaning should make way for top-level games that fans care about, whether white-ball or red-ball. The main message was: listen to the fans. Cricket is part of the entertainment world now, and people have many choices. To keep their interest, the game needs big stars and big moments. Sangakkara summed it up perfectly: “We are entertainers. Give fans what they enjoy.” Franchise leagues were also discussed. While on one hand, they bring in money and new fans, but on the other side, they also create tension between national boards and team owners. But many believed this growth helps cricket reach more people and move forward. There was also hope. Experts said that if women’s cricket and markets like the USA are fully explored, cricket could become a $10 billion sport. Also Read | RCB Worth ₹17,000 Crore? United Spirits Says NO to Sale Talks India’s Big Role and Final Thoughts One thing everyone agreed on, India is key to cricket’s future. Its fan base and financial support help the entire sport. Without India’s tours, many countries would struggle. Kumar Sangakkara praised India’s support, and Sourav Ganguly reminded everyone of India’s work to keep cricket strong. The event was full of ideas. Some were practical, others bold. One speaker said this was not just small change but a “revolution.” And one line summed it up well: “The real answers about cricket’s future may come from outside the Long Room.”