The IOC has confirmed the inclusion of cricket, along with squash, baseball/softball, flag football, and lacrosse in the 2028 Olympic Games

MUMBAI: Cricket, a sport deeply ingrained in the fabric of countries like India, is set to make its official debut at the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles. The Announcement by the International Olympic Committee (IOC) marks a significant stride towards establishing cricket as a global sporting phenomenon. The thrilling T20 format of the game will be showcased at the Olympics, amplifying the excitement of the event.

In addition to cricket, four other sports have received the IOC's seal of approval for inclusion in the 2028 Olympic Games. These sports are squash, baseball/softball, flag football, and lacrosse. This expansion aims to diversify the sporting events, offering a broader and more inclusive experience for both athletes and spectators.

IOC President Thomas Bach enthusiastically welcomed the addition of these sports to the Olympic program, emphasizing their selection as a step towards enriching the sports culture in the United States and bringing international sports to American audiences. The decision to include these sports received overwhelming support during the IOC's 141st session, with just two out of 99 members opposing the recommendation through a show of hands.

The Historic inclusion of cricket in the Olympics holds special significance, as the sport was last played at the Olympics in 1900. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and the International Cricket Council (ICC) had long advocated for this move, given cricket's immense popularity, particularly in cricket-loving nations like India.

Italian Olympic champion shooter and sports director of the Los Angeles 2028 Olympics, Niccolò Campriani, underlined the global appeal of cricket, citing its enormous fan base of over two and a half billion worldwide. He also expressed excitement about promoting cricket in the United States, emphasizing the successful journey of Major League Cricket and the forthcoming T20 World Cup in the region.

Thomas Bach praised the efforts of the ICC in aligning with Olympic values while emphasizing the importance of integrating sports that resonate with American culture. The inclusion of cricket and other sports not only enhances the sporting spectacle but also serves to expand the Olympic movement's reach and embrace a broader spectrum of athletes, fans, partners, and communities.