Grace Hayden Launches Podcast to Boost Cricket’s Appeal in the US

Grace Hayden, daughter of celebrated Australian cricketer Matthew Hayden, is set to transform the landscape of cricket in the United States with her new podcast, titled Game On With Grace. The 23-year-old aims to popularize the sport among American audiences, offering fresh perspectives and engaging narratives that highlight cricket’s unique appeal.

The podcast will debut on July 18, 2025, streaming weekly on Willow, the leading cricket broadcasting network in the U.S. Known for its extensive cricket coverage, Willow is positioning itself as a platform for innovative content that connects with both seasoned fans and newcomers alike. Grace’s vision is to pull back the curtain on cricket, sharing untold stories that resonate with a broader audience.

Grace Hayden, who has spent her life immersed in the world of cricket, described her podcast as an opportunity to showcase “raw, funny, and inspiring conversations with athletes, artists, and anyone chasing greatness.” Her first guest will be Adam Gilchrist, another Australian cricket legend and a former teammate of her father. Together, they represent a significant chapter in Australia’s cricketing history, and their discussions are expected to captivate listeners.

The push to expand cricket’s presence in the U.S. comes as the sport sees a surge in interest, particularly following the establishment of Major League Cricket in 2023. This professional T20 league has attracted global attention and features high-profile players, including Ricky Ponting and Pat Cummins. The combination of international stars and growing domestic talent is providing American fans with a taste of world-class cricket.

Cricket’s historical roots in North America are significant, with the first international match taking place between the U.S. and Canada in 1844. Despite this rich history, cricket has struggled to gain a foothold in a market dominated by sports like baseball. The 2024 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, co-hosted by the U.S., brought major matches to cities like New York, Dallas, and Lauderhill, igniting renewed interest in the game.

“The U.S. has long been viewed as the final frontier for cricket,” said Todd Myers, chief executive of Willow. “Launching Willow’s first original series is an important step in expanding how we serve and grow the cricket community.” He praised Grace’s on-screen presence and deep knowledge of the game, noting that her voice will resonate with a diverse audience.

Through her podcast, Grace Hayden hopes to bridge cultural gaps and make cricket relatable to American viewers. By focusing on personal stories and the energy of the sport, she aims to foster a connection that will encourage new fans to engage with cricket.

As cricket continues to evolve in the United States, Grace’s initiative stands out as a promising effort to bring the sport into the mainstream. By leveraging her family’s legacy and her own media experience, she is poised to play a pivotal role in cricket’s journey toward greater recognition and popularity in a competitive sporting environment.