The International Cricket Council (ICC) and the International Olympic Committee (IOC) have officially confirmed that cricket will make a historic comeback at the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games, returning for the first time since Paris 1900. The announcement brings clarity on schedule, format, venue, and what this moment means for the global game.
Official Schedule & Format
The T20 format competitions for both men’s and women’s tournaments will be held from July 12 to July 29, 2028, at the Pomona Fairplex, located approximately 50 kilometers from downtown Los Angeles.
- Medal matches are set for July 20 (women’s) and July 29 (men’s).
- Each tournament will feature six national teams with squads of up to 15 players, totaling 90 athletes per competition.
- Matches will be held as double-headers on most days, with start times scheduled for 9:00 AM and 6:30 PM local time.
This compact yet high-impact structure aims to integrate cricket into the Olympic framework efficiently while maintaining its competitive edge.
A Return 128 Years in the Making
Cricket was last played at the Olympic Games in Paris 1900, in a single match between Great Britain and France. That event remains cricket’s only appearance in the Olympics to date, marking a 128-year hiatus.
In 2023, the ICC proposed a six-team T20 format, which received approval from the IOC during its session in Mumbai. The Pomona Fairplex was announced as the official venue in April 2025, bringing the Olympic dream a step closer to reality.
Venue & Broadcast Considerations
The Pomona Fairplex in Southern California was selected to host all cricket matches.
- The choice ensures events remain within Los Angeles County, enabling athletes to stay in the main Olympic Village.
- From a broadcasting perspective, West Coast timing aligns well with prime-time viewing in cricket-loving regions such as India and the UK.
This approach balances operational logistics and international audience appeal, a key factor in cricket’s Olympic strategy.
Why This Matters
- Global Expansion: The Olympics offer cricket a massive platform to reach new fans, especially in the United States, where the sport is gradually gaining popularity.
- Gender Equality: Hosting both men’s and women’s tournaments highlights cricket’s commitment to balanced representation.
- Efficient Format: The limited number of teams keeps the tournament lean, maximizing excitement while minimizing scheduling conflicts.
- Pathway to Future Games: Success at LA28 could open doors to expanded participation in future Olympics, including Brisbane 2032.
Reception & Outlook
Cricket stars and administrators have expressed enthusiasm over the announcement.
- Former Indian captain Virat Kohli welcomed the move as a significant milestone for global cricket development.
- ICC Chairman Jay Shah highlighted the announcement on International Olympic Day, emphasizing cricket’s alignment with Olympic values and its potential to inspire youth through sport.
Analysts believe Olympic inclusion could fast-track cricket’s acceptance in North America, where new leagues like Major League Cricket are beginning to generate momentum.
What Fans Should Watch For
- Qualification Process: Details are yet to be finalized, but ICC rankings or Olympic qualifiers may be used to determine the six participating teams.
- National Representation: Countries like India, England, Australia, USA, and potentially composite teams like Great Britain may feature.
- Global Coverage: Negotiations for broadcasting rights are ongoing, but the expectation is for wide international coverage to highlight cricket’s Olympic debut.
Final Word
With dates, venue, and format now confirmed, cricket’s return to the Olympic Games at Los Angeles 2028 marks a pivotal moment in its international journey. The inclusion of both men’s and women’s T20 tournaments, combined with the sport’s rapidly growing global footprint, suggests that cricket’s Olympic future is bright.
Whether this edition becomes a one-off or a recurring highlight will depend on fan response, global engagement, and the sport’s ability to translate tradition into spectacle. For now, LA28 promises to be a landmark event—reviving a century-old Olympic story and ushering in a new era for the gentleman’s game.
Photo Credit: ICC
