Return of Cricket in Los Angeles Olympics 2028

Cricket is set to make its return to the Olympics at the Los Angeles 2028 Games, more than a century after its last appearance. Here’s a detailed look at why cricket is coming back and what to expect.

Why cricket was removed from the Olympics?

Cricket was last included in the Olympics in 1900. The primary reason for its removal was the limited international appeal and participation at the time. The 1900 Olympic cricket match was between Great Britain and France, as other European teams withdrew. The lack of global interest and the sport’s minimal presence outside of England and its colonies contributed to its exclusion.

Reasons behind the Comeback of Cricket from Olympics 2028:

The re-inclusion of cricket in the Los Angeles Olympics 2028 is driven by the sport’s global growth and increased popularity, especially in the North Americas and Europe. The International Olympic Committee (IOC) has been expanding the roster of sports to include more diverse and popular global sports. Cricket’s inclusion is seen as a move to attract a larger audience and promote inclusivity, given its strong following in several countries like India, England, Australia, Pakistan, and others.

The shift in mindset was influenced by cricket’s expanding international presence and its growing audience. The sport’s rising profile through global tournaments like the T20 World Cup and the Indian Premier League (IPL) has demonstrated its potential to engage a wider audience. The inclusion of cricket aligns with the IOC’s strategy to modernize the Games and appeal to younger demographics.

Possible Teams and Format in Olympics 2028

While the exact teams participating in the Olympic cricket tournament are yet to be confirmed, it is expected that some of the top cricketing nations will be included. Possible teams are likely to include India, the reigning men’s T20 World Cup champions; Australia, England, Pakistan, South Africa, West Indies, Sri Lanka, New Zealand, and Bangladesh, depending on their performance in qualifying events.

For the Los Angeles Olympics 2028, the T20 format will be used, which is known for its fast-paced and high-energy matches. Each team will bat for 20 overs, with games typically lasting around three hours. This format’s dynamic nature is well-suited for the Olympics’ schedule and should attract both cricket enthusiasts and casual viewers.

Venues and schedule

The specific cricket venues for LA Olympics 2028 are yet to be confirmed. The Los Angeles Games are committed to using existing and temporary venues to align with sustainability goals. The schedule for cricket matches will be finalized closer to the Games.