Olympic Games debut to be a game-changer for Cricket

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Cricket going for gold as Olympic Games inclusion confirmed for 2028

Cricket will be part of the Olympic Games for the first time in more than 100 years after its inclusion at Los Angeles 2028 was formally ratified by the International Olympic Committee (IOC).

The global sport will be part of the Olympic Games programme for the first time since 1900 when it is played at LA28 following confirmation from the IOC.

The ICC has led the proposal and expansive two-year process for cricket to be added to the Olympic Games programme with LA28 also recommending its inclusion to the IOC last week.

The Olympic Games is estimated

The IOC formally ratified the addition of cricket to the Olympic Games at LA28 during the 141st IOC Session in Mumbai on Monday.

The Olympic Games is estimated to have an audience of more than three billion viewers across TV and digital platforms, representing a unique opportunity for cricket to engage new audiences.

This will further boost the popular sport’s reach across the world, opening the door to a new generation of cricket enthusiasts and fans.

“We are thrilled that cricket’s inclusion in the LA28 Olympic Games has been confirmed by the IOC Session today,” ICC Chairman Greg Barclay said.

“To have the opportunity to showcase our great sport at the LA28 Games and hopefully many Olympic Games to come will be great for players and fans alike.

“I’d like to thank the International Olympic Committee and LA28 for their support and for their trust in our organisation’s ability to deliver a world-class event and countless new Olympic fans from all over the world.

“The fact that the IOC confirmation of our selection occurred here in Mumbai, during the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup, is truly icing on the cake.

“The innings have just begun, and we can’t wait to see where this incredible journey leads.”

Some of the greats of the game have also welcomed the confirmation that cricket will be part of the LA28 sports programme.

“It is so exciting that cricket is now an Olympic sport and will make its return at LA28,” said Mithali Raj, former India captain and all-time leading female run scorer.

“Players will get the chance to compete for an Olympic gold medal and be part of the games which will be so special.

“It’s also a chance for more fans around the world to enjoy our fantastic sport.”

Cricket has only been part of the Olympic Games once previously, back in 1900, but the stars of the game will now be able to dream of winning a gold medal at the XXXIV Olympiad.

“The opportunity to win an Olympic medal also provides a new and exciting opportunity for our champion women’s and men’s teams.

“We look forward to working with the Australian Olympic Committee in the lead-up to the Los Angeles Games and are hopeful this will be the start of a long-standing relationship between cricket and the Olympics, including for Brisbane 2032.”

After being proposed by Los Angeles officials a week ago, all five sports were approved by IOC members at the 141st IOC session in Mumbai on Monday.

Of 90 member votes, only two voted against the five sports’ inclusion.

Lacrosse was previously played in the 1904 and 1908 Olympics, with its return aided by its North American roots.