Cricket Returns to Olympics After 128 Years at LA28
Cricket is making its Olympic comeback at LA 2028 with six T20 teams. Here’s what makes this historic return so exciting for global and U.S. fans alike.
A New Pitch: Cricket’s Long-Awaited Olympic Comeback Set for LA 2028
After more than a century on the sidelines, cricket is stepping back onto the world’s biggest sporting stage—the Olympic Games. When the Los Angeles 2028 Summer Olympics roll around, the gentleman’s game will finally get its encore performance, having last appeared in 1900. This time, though, the format, stage, and stakes are dramatically different—and far more electrifying.
From Forgotten to Featured: Cricket’s Road Back to the Olympics
It’s hard to believe that a sport followed by over 2.5 billion people globally has only ever appeared once in Olympic history. That lone match took place in Paris in 1900 between teams representing England and France. Since then, cricket’s growth has exploded across continents—from the dusty fields of India to the backyard leagues in the Caribbean. Yet, Olympic recognition remained elusive—until now.
Thanks to persistent lobbying by the International Cricket Council (ICC) and increasing global interest, the sport is officially returning at LA28. Cricket’s inclusion was approved by the International Olympic Committee (IOC) in 2023, alongside four other new sports: baseball/softball, flag football, lacrosse, and squash.
T20 Format Chosen for Fast-Paced Olympic Drama
The version of cricket being showcased at the Olympics will be the Twenty20 (T20) format—an action-packed, three-hour spectacle designed for today’s fast-paced viewing habits. Known for big hits, rapid scoring, and thrilling finishes, T20 is considered cricket’s most fan-friendly format.
Each men’s and women’s tournament will feature only six teams. With just 90 athlete slots per gender, the competition will be tight. Squads will consist of 15 players each, meaning only the very best nations will make the cut. The United States is expected to qualify automatically as the host nation, leaving five precious spots open for others.
How Will Teams Qualify? Expect Intense Global Competition
Although the final qualification criteria have not been announced, fans can expect a mix of rankings, regional qualifiers, and perhaps a wildcard or two. The ICC currently recognizes 12 Full Member nations, including powerhouses like India, Australia, and England. Add to that over 90 Associate Member countries with active T20 programs, and the competition for those five open slots becomes a thrilling race in itself.
The format may favor emerging cricket nations as well. In T20 cricket, upsets are more likely, meaning countries with less cricketing history—such as Namibia or the Netherlands—could find themselves on the Olympic stage.
Cricket in America: LA 2028 Could Be a Turning Point
For the United States, cricket has long lived in the shadow of baseball and football. But that could change dramatically. With LA28 as the catalyst, and the U.S. set to co-host the 2024 ICC T20 World Cup, American interest in the sport is already starting to swell.
Major League Cricket (MLC) has launched as the country’s first franchise league, and youth participation is steadily increasing. Bringing cricket into the Olympic mainstream could unlock new sponsorships, grassroots programs, and fan engagement nationwide.
“Cricket’s Olympic debut in America is the chance of a generation to grow the sport in a new market,” said Tom Harrison, former ECB CEO and key advocate for Olympic inclusion.
Brisbane 2032 Will Keep the Momentum Going
The momentum doesn’t stop with LA. Cricket is already confirmed for Brisbane 2032, where it will feel right at home. In Australia, cricket is more than a sport—it’s a national identity. Olympic cricket matches played in packed stadiums down under could elevate the game’s prestige even further.
As more Olympic cycles embrace cricket, there’s potential for long-term development across Asia, Africa, and Europe, not just in powerhouse nations.
Final Over: Cricket’s Comeback is Just the Beginning
Cricket’s return to the Olympics is more than just a nostalgic nod—it’s a new chapter for a sport ready to capture hearts on a global stage. With only six teams competing, every match will be high-stakes. For countries like the U.S., it’s a once-in-a-lifetime chance to ignite a cricketing culture. For the world, it’s a long-overdue celebration of a beloved game that’s finally taking its rightful place in the Olympic arena.
As the countdown to LA28 continues, one thing is certain: this isn’t just about cricket returning—it’s about rewriting the future of the sport.
Disclaimer:
This article is for informational purposes only. Tournament formats, qualification rules, and team participation are subject to change based on decisions by the International Olympic Committee and the International Cricket Council.
source : The Economic Times