Cricket’s return to the Olympics after more than a century is generating significant buzz and controversy as the LA28 Games approach. The International Olympic Committee (IOC) has approved the inclusion of cricket in the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, with the tournament scheduled to kick off on July 12, 2028.
The event will feature separate T20I competitions for men and women, with the medal matches taking place on July 20 and 29. This marks cricket’s second appearance at the Olympics, the first being in 1900, making the 128-year hiatus a historic moment.
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However, the qualification process has sparked debate. The International Cricket Council (ICC) recently announced a new regional qualification system aligned with IOC standards to ensure continental representation from Asia, Oceania, Europe, Africa, and the Americas.
Under this system, teams like India (Asia), South Africa (Africa), Australia (Oceania), and Great Britain (Europe) are expected to qualify based on their current T20I rankings, with the USA securing an automatic spot as hosts.
The controversy centers on Pakistan and New Zealand, who may miss out despite their cricketing stature. New Zealand, ranked fourth in the ICC T20I rankings, is behind Australia (second) and would qualify on current standings.
Pakistan, ranked eighth, faces a tougher path, as their recent form has been underwhelming—they have won only five of their 11 T20Is in 2025 and have lost series to Bangladesh and New Zealand.
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Both nations have voiced their displeasure with the proposed qualification system, which remains to be ratified by the ICC for LA28. Pakistan, in particular, is concerned about being sidelined in the qualification process, sparking fears of their exclusion from the historic LA28 cricket event.
The inclusion of cricket in LA28 is a significant milestone in Olympic history, as it marks the sport’s return after over a century. Yet, the qualification disputes threaten to overshadow the excitement, with the potential absence of Pakistan and New Zealand a notable point of contention.