Cricket is set to make a grand return in the Olympics with its schedule now revealed. The 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles, USA will feature cricket matches hosted at Pomona's Fairgrounds Stadium, located approximately 50 kilometers from Los Angeles. These exciting matches are scheduled to commence on July 12, with medal matches taking place on July 20 and 29.
Six Teams to Participate
A total of six teams from both men's and women's categories will participate, with 180 players competing in this thrilling quadrennial carnival in the T20 format. Previously, cricket was included only once in the 1900 Paris Olympics. As per the organizers, there will be no matches on July 14 and 21, while most days will feature double-header matches (two matches in one day).
Cricket's Historical Olympic Appearance in 1900
During the 1900 Paris Olympics, cricket featured once, where two teams, Great Britain and France, played a two-day match, with Great Britain clinching the gold medal. There are 90 player slots each for men and women, allowing each of the 12 teams to declare a squad of 15 members.
T20 World Cup Matches Held in USA
The increasing popularity of cricket is evident from the matches held in three locations in the USA - Grand Prairie, Lauderhill, and New York, for the 2024 T20 World Cup, co-hosted by the USA and the West Indies.
The International Olympic Committee (IOC) has approved cricket along with baseball/softball, flag football, lacrosse (sixes), and squash as five new sports for the 2028 Games. Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass stated, 'When the world gathers here for these games, we will host an event that is inclusive for everyone and leaves a lasting legacy.'
