Cricket will make a triumphant return to the Olympics for the first time in over a century, as its inclusion in the Los Angeles 2028 Games has been officially ratified by the International Olympic Committee (IOC).
After an absence spanning more than a century since its last appearance in 1900, cricket will once again grace the Olympic stage when it takes center field in LA28, as confirmed by the IOC. The International Cricket Council (ICC) played a pivotal role in the proposal and the extensive two-year process, with LA28 also recommending its inclusion to the IOC.
HISTORIC DECISION IN MUMBAI
The IOC formally approved the addition of cricket to the Olympics at LA28 during the 141st IOC Session held in Mumbai on Monday, marking a historic moment for the sport.
With an estimated audience of over three billion viewers across TV and digital platforms, the Olympic Games provide a unique opportunity for cricket to captivate new audiences, setting the stage for the sport to expand its global reach.
EXCITEMENT ABOUNDS IN THE CRICKETING WORLD
ICC Chairman Greg Barclay expressed his delight, saying, “We are thrilled that cricket’s inclusion in the LA28 Olympic Games has been confirmed by the IOC Session today. To have the opportunity to showcase our great sport at the LA28 Games and hopefully many Olympic Games to come will be great for players and fans alike.”
SUPPORT FROM CRICKET LEGENDS
Legendary figures of the game also rejoiced at the news. Mithali Raj, former India captain and the all-time leading female run scorer, highlighted the significance of cricket’s return to the Olympics, stating, “It is so exciting that cricket is now an Olympic sport and will make its return at LA28. Players will get the chance to compete for an Olympic gold medal and be part of the games, which will be so special.”
GOLDEN DREAMS AWAIT THE CRICKET STARS
Cricket’s participation in the Olympics, which has only occurred once before in 1900, allows the sport’s brightest stars to dream of achieving the pinnacle of success by winning a gold medal at the XXXIV Olympiad.
OTHER GAMES
The other games that would be added to the 2028 are Baseball/softball, flag football, lacrosse (sixes) and squash.
- For baseball and softball, cricket and lacrosse it will be a return to the Olympic Games, while flag football and squash will be making their Olympic debut in LA.
- Baseball and softball have been part of the programme at several editions of the Olympic Games, most recently at Tokyo 2020.
- Cricket was on the programme for the Olympic Games Paris 1900.
- Lacrosse was included on the programme at St Louis 1904 and London 1908.
- Flag football and squash will make their Olympic debut at LA28.
