Cricket Returns To Olympics After More Than A Century, Final Decision On 2028 Los Angeles Games On Monday

Cricket's potential return to the Olympics after more than a century gained momentum as the International Olympic Committee's executive board on Friday (13 October) approved its inclusion at the 2028 Los Angeles Games.

IOC President Thomas Bach, addressing the media after the second day of an executive board meeting in Mumbai, disclosed that LA organizers' proposal for Twenty20 cricket, along with baseball/softball, flag football, squash, and lacrosse, had been accepted.

The final decision on the sports for the 2028 program will be determined on Monday at the IOC session in Mumbai, Hindustan Times reported. The decision coincides with India hosting the men's ODI Cricket World Cup.

Bach emphasised the opportunity for the IOC to connect with new athlete and fan communities, citing the growing popularity of T20 cricket. Los Angeles has suggested a six-team event for both men's and women's T20 cricket, with the United States participating as the host nation. The official decision on the number of teams and qualification criteria awaits formal ratification on Monday.

Cricket's last appearance at the Olympics was in 1900, and its potential return aligns with financial considerations, aiming to tap into the lucrative South Asian market, particularly in cricket-crazy nations like India.

T20 cricket, known for its brevity, has gained immense popularity, with the Indian Premier League (IPL) playing a pivotal role in India's economic dominance in the sport.

While the inclusion of cricket in the Olympic program seems promising, the status of boxing at the 2028 Games remains uncertain due to a dispute over governance issues with the International Boxing Association. IOC President Bach clarified that the concern lies with the governing body, not the sport or its athletes.