The prospect of cricket making its grand return to the Olympic stage is buzzing through the air. According to a report by The Indian Express, cricket might be included in the 2028 Olympics scheduled in Los Angeles. The International Olympic Committee (IOC) reportedly aims to expand its fan base, and incorporating cricket seems like a viable strategy to achieve that. Notably, the crucial decision about this inclusion will be made between October 15-16 during an IOC meeting in Mumbai.
The IOC’s executive board will hold a preliminary meeting in Lausanne, Switzerland, on September 8. Here, they will suggest a list of sports for potential inclusion in the 2028 games. Once these suggestions are on the table, a final decision will follow in Mumbai, where over 100 IOC members will vote.
So, what sports are up for consideration? Alongside cricket, other contenders include kickboxing, flag football, baseball-softball, karate, lacrosse, squash, breakdancing, and motorsport. Michael Payne, a senior member of the IOC, pointed out that cricket stands as one of the front-runners for the 2028 slot. Payne further highlighted that the influx of investment from several top-notch tech firms in major cricket leagues substantially boosts the sport’s chances.
For India, this news is particularly tantalizing. Cricket isn’t just a sport in India; it’s a religion, worshipped and followed by millions. Moreover, India is vying to host the Olympics in 2036. So, the inclusion of cricket in the 2028 games would significantly elevate the sport’s global status and further boost India’s bid for the 2036 hosting rights.
Will Cricket Be Included In the 2028 Olympics?
This isn’t the first time cricket has knocked on the Olympic door. The sport made its solitary appearance at the 1900 Olympics, where the gold medal match saw teams representing France and Britain compete. However, since then, cricket has remained absent from the games, leading many to wonder why such a globally popular sport hasn’t reappeared.
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The fact that the IOC is now reconsidering cricket suggests a recognition of the sport’s burgeoning global appeal. Cricket’s reach extends far beyond traditional strongholds like India, England, and Australia. Countries like Afghanistan, Ireland, and even the United States have started to make their mark.
The potential inclusion of cricket would also serve the IOC’s objective of tapping into new demographics. Cricket comes with an already massive and passionate fan base, especially in South Asia. Additionally, the sport’s inclusion would bring a rich tapestry of culture and tradition to the Olympic Games, making it more inclusive and diverse.
