New Delhi: The stage is set for a historic moment in sports history as cricket prepares to return to the Olympic Games after a remarkable 128-year absence. The Los Angeles 2028 Olympics will witness the sport’s resurgence, featuring six teams in both men’s and women’s categories. This milestone is a result of a broader move by the International Olympic Committee (IOC), which has approved cricket alongside four other sports for inclusion in the LA Games. Cricket joins baseball/softball, flag football, lacrosse (sixes), and squash as newcomers to the Olympic roster.
Cricket’s T20 format, known for its fast-paced and thrilling gameplay, will be the preferred format for the Olympics. Each participating team will have a 15-member squad, which means a total of 90 athletes will compete in each gender category. The International Cricket Council (ICC), governing body of the sport, comprises 12 full member countries and 94 associate members, highlighting cricket’s global reach and diverse participation.
The qualification criteria for the 2028 cricket tournament have yet to be confirmed, but as the host nation, the United States is likely to receive a direct spot, leaving five additional spots for teams to secure through qualification. Cricket last appeared in the Olympics in 1900 with a two-day match between Great Britain and France in Paris, now recognized as an unofficial Test. This return marks a significant step forward for the sport, offering opportunities for global exposure and development.
