Cricket is set to make a historic comeback to the Olympic Games at the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics after a 128-year absence. The inclusion of men’s and women’s T20 cricket represents a significant milestone for the sport, achieved after a two-year collaborative effort between the International Cricket Council (ICC) and the Los Angeles 2028 Organizing Committee (LA28). This development is expected to have far-reaching impacts on cricket’s global reach and popularity.
Australian fast bowler Pat Cummins, who has led Australia to multiple ICC trophies, acknowledged that while the event feels distant, excitement is sure to build as the Olympics approach. Cummins, who has achieved remarkable success with Australia, including victories in the 2021 T20 World Cup, the 2023 ODI World Cup, and the World Test Championship, recognises the significance of cricket’s inclusion in the Olympics and its potential to enhance the legacy of the sport.
The choice of T20 as the format for the Olympics aligns with the fast-paced and dynamic nature of the Games. The inclusion is expected to boost cricket’s growth in emerging markets, particularly in the United States, where Major League Cricket (MLC) has already sparked increased interest. The USA’s upcoming co-hosting of the men’s T20 World Cup further underscores the growing popularity of the sport in the region.
The Olympic debut of cricket also presents a unique opportunity for ICC Associate members, as participation in the Games is likely to attract funding and infrastructural support from national Olympic organisations. This could significantly contribute to the development of cricket in nations where the sport is still in its nascent stages.
The International Olympic Committee (IOC) added cricket alongside other sports like flag football, lacrosse, and squash, recognising its global appeal and marketability. This decision aligns with the IOC’s strategy to engage diverse audiences and expand the financial prospects of the Games.
For cricket enthusiasts, particularly in the USA, the inclusion of the sport in the Olympics is a momentous achievement. The USA Cricket Board has expressed its gratitude to the ICC and the US Olympic Committee for their efforts in making this dream a reality. As the countdown to the 2028 Olympics begins, cricket’s return not only marks a victory for the sport but also highlights its growing influence and potential in previously untapped regions.