Cricket will be one of five new sports to make its Olympic debut at the 2028 Games in Los Angeles, the organizing committee announced on Monday.
During the International Olympic Committee’s session in Mumbai, a vote confirmed the inclusion of cricket, as well as baseball/softball, flag football, squash, and lacrosse as new sports for the 2028 Olympics.
The International Olympic Committee (IOC) executive board had previously accepted the proposal by Los Angeles organizers to include Twenty20 cricket, which is the sport’s shortest format, along with the four other newly added events.
The final decision, however, still required approval, and it was officially voted on during the IOC session in Mumbai, a prominent global hub for cricket. India, as the host of the men’s 50-over Cricket World Cup, further underscores its significance in the cricket world.
Los Angeles organizers have put forth a plan for a six-team competition in both men’s and women’s T20 cricket.
As the host nation, the United States is preparing to field teams, but there is still uncertainty regarding the exact number of teams and the qualification process.
Cricket’s last appearance at the Olympics dates back to the 1900 Paris Games, where a British team emerged victorious against a side representing France.
Including cricket in the Olympic program is a clear financial decision. It would open up the lucrative South Asian market, drawing in fans from countries such as India and Pakistan.
The Indian Premier League, which showcases cricket’s top global talents, has catapulted India into an undisputed economic powerhouse in the world of the sport. This is due to the immense fan following and highly profitable broadcasting agreements in a country where cricket is nearly a religion.