IOC confirms cricket’s inclusion in the LA 2028 Games; T20 format selected for global appeal.
New Delhi, April 11, 2025:
In a landmark decision for the sport, cricket is all set to return to the Olympic Games after more than a century, with its inclusion in the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. The International Olympic Committee (IOC) confirmed the addition of cricket to the Olympic roster, bringing cheer to millions of fans worldwide, especially in cricket-loving nations like India, Australia, England, and Pakistan.
The format selected for the event is the T20 format, which is fast-paced, viewer-friendly, and ideal for the global Olympic audience. Both men’s and women’s teams will compete, making it a gender-inclusive entry into the world's biggest sporting event.
A Historic Milestone for Cricket
Cricket was last played at the Olympics in 1900 in Paris, where Great Britain beat France in the only match of the tournament. After more than 120 years, the sport’s comeback is expected to boost its global outreach and draw new audiences from non-traditional markets such as the USA, Germany, and China.
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and the International Cricket Council (ICC) have both expressed strong support for the move, calling it a “game-changer” for the sport’s international growth.
India Poised to Be a Top Contender
With India being one of the most dominant cricketing nations and having a massive fan base, its participation in the Olympics is expected to increase viewership and raise the global profile of the Games. Cricket’s inclusion is also seen as a strategic move to tap into the Asian and South Asian markets, where the sport enjoys unparalleled popularity.
IOC’s Focus on Youth and Diversity
The Los Angeles Olympics 2028 will also feature other new sports like flag football, squash, baseball-softball, and lacrosse, reflecting the IOC’s vision to modernize the Olympic programme and connect with a younger, more diverse audience.
Cricket’s addition not only marks a sporting achievement but also opens doors to future Olympic host countries where cricket could find a new home and following.
