Saayak Karmakar 
In the hushed corridors of sports history, a resounding decision reverberated, marking the dawn of a new era for a beloved sport. The International Olympic Committee (IOC) made a historic announcement during its session in the vibrant city of Mumbai – cricket, with all its thrills and spills, is officially inducted into the 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles. The cricketing world erupted in cheer as Twenty20 cricket, the heartbeat of the modern game, takes center stage, embracing both men and women’s teams. A thrilling journey awaits, igniting passions, dreams, and new chapters in the Olympic tale.
In a historic decision, the International Olympic Committee (IOC) officially approved the inclusion of cricket in the 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles. The announcement came during the IOC session in Mumbai. Cricket will be featured in the Twenty20 format, with both men’s and women’s teams participating. Initially, the ICC will field six teams in each category for LA28.
Cricket joins other sports like baseball/softball, flag football, lacrosse, and squash in the Olympic Games in 2028.
Nita Ambani, a member of the IOC, expressed her excitement, saying, “The inclusion of cricket in the sports program for the Los Angeles 2028 Olympics Games is a welcome addition that has the potential to attract new interest and opportunities for the Olympic movement in newer geographies worldwide.”
She continued, “As an IOC member, a proud Indian, and an ardent cricket fan, I am delighted that IOC members have voted to include cricket as an Olympic sport in the LA Summer Olympics 2028.”
Cricket’s previous appearance in the Olympics was in 1900, featuring only two teams. The decision marks the second time the IOC session has been held in India, returning to the country after 40 years.
“I’m delighted that this historic resolution was passed at the 141st IOC Session taking place right here in our country in Mumbai,” Ambani added.
Janet Evans, LA28 Chief Athlete Officer, noted, “The hope of an Olympic dream just became an active pursuit for countless athletes around the world. This remarkable journey over the next five years will undoubtedly change lives, inspiring athletes with the opportunity to represent their sport and country on the world’s biggest stage.”
Greg Barclay, the Chair of the International Cricket Council (ICC), expressed his excitement, saying, “Cricket’s inclusion in the Olympic Games has been a priority for our organization. We’re thrilled to have the opportunity to showcase our great sport and athletes at the LA28 Games and hopefully in many Olympic Games to come.”
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) played a significant role in the process. Jay Shah, BCCI Secretary, was part of the ICC Olympics Working Group, which played a crucial role in securing cricket’s participation in the Olympics. He has been a strong advocate of cricket’s inclusion in various multi-sport events, including the Commonwealth Games and the recent Asian Games in China.
“The BCCI has been a staunch supporter of the ICC’s efforts to include cricket as an Olympic sport. This initiative aligns with the idea of India hosting the 2036 Olympics, as envisioned by our Hon’ble Prime Minister,” Shah said.
The inclusion of cricket in the Olympics is set to open new frontiers for the sport, providing unparalleled exposure in untapped global markets. “We anticipate that this decision will yield significant financial dividends and have a profound positive impact on our sport’s ecosystem. It will fuel infrastructural development, intensify competition, foster youth development, and create opportunities for officials, volunteers, and skilled professionals,” Shah added.
The inclusion of cricket in the 2028 Olympics is not only a historic moment for the sport but also a game-changer for its global reach and development. Cricket fans around the world eagerly await the opportunity to witness their favorite sport on the grandest sporting stage of all, the Olympics.
As the sun sets on this landmark decision, cricket enthusiasts worldwide eagerly await a grand Olympic stage for their beloved sport. With rich heritage and modern zeal, cricket is embarking on an Olympic adventure, reaching new horizons. The LA Summer Olympics in 2028 promises a memorable journey, weaving cricket into the grand tapestry of the world’s premier sporting event. The Olympic torch now lights the pitch, where dreams take shape, and legends emerge, uniting excellence and the indomitable human spirit in the true Olympic spirit.
