Worldwide, everyone is questioning: Will Cricket make a Comeback at LA28 Olympics? The wait is over, and the excitement is palpable as cricket enthusiasts worldwide gear up for the ultimate showdown in Los Angeles 2028. Men and women cricketers alike will showcase their prowess in a spectacle that transcends time and tradition. Cricket has officially reclaimed its spot in the Olympic lineup after an astonishing 128-year hiatus
Will Cricket make a Comeback at LA28 Olympics?
The executive board of the IOC had already recommended cricket’s inclusion in the world’s most significant sporting event.
While the recommendation has been accepted, the next crucial step involves a formal vote by the IOC at its session, scheduled to take place in Mumbai from October 14 to 16.
The LA28 local organizing committee proposed the potential inclusion of five new sports, namely cricket, baseball/softball, flag football, lacrosse, and squash. The IOC president, Thomas Bach, emphasized that these choices align seamlessly with the overarching ethos of LA28.
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With a staggering estimated audience of over 3 billion viewers during the Olympic Games, cricket has a unique opportunity to engage with a global audience. This move not only extends cricket’s global reach but also ushers in a new era for enthusiasts, fostering growth and popularity.
The International Cricket Council (ICC) dedicated two years to crafting a compelling proposal that harmonizes with Olympic values and LA28’s mission. The meticulous process has finally borne fruit, marking a pivotal moment for cricket on the Olympic stage.
Thomas Bach, the IOC president, expressed satisfaction with cricket’s robust anti-doping program, highlighting the sport’s strong and growing global appeal. The move recognizes cricket’s potential to showcase iconic American sports to the world while introducing international sports to the United States.
Thomas Bach revealed that convincing LA28 of cricket’s inclusion required minimal effort, with LA28 chairperson Casey Wasserman already recognizing the sport’s potential during a dinner last year. The effortless decision showcases cricket’s universal appeal.
Cricket’s Growing Popularity
The IOC’s engagement with the International Cricket Council (ICC) emphasizes the global growth of T20 cricket, acknowledging its popularity. The upcoming 2028 Olympics will feature six teams each in men’s and women’s cricket, subject to finalization in 2025.
While the excitement builds for cricket’s inclusion in the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, the IOC plans to review its presence in future editions, including the 2032 Games in Brisbane. The popularity of the sport is expected to play a significant role in its continued association with the Olympic movement.
Thomas Bach underlines the mutual benefits of cricket’s inclusion in the Olympics. The global stage of the Olympic Games provides an opportunity for cricket to expand beyond traditional strongholds, while the Olympics gain access to a fan and athlete community that cricket uniquely attracts.
