Cricket Returns to the Olympics at LA28

Cricket is set to make a historic comeback at the Olympic Games after more than a century. LA28 will host both men’s and women’s T20 tournaments, marking the sport’s first Olympic appearance since 1900.

🏟️ Venue Confirmed: Pomona Fairplex

The cricket events will take place at a temporary stadium at the Fairplex in Pomona, located about 35 miles east of Downtown Los Angeles. The venue choice reflects LA28’s commitment to sustainable planning by utilizing existing infrastructure.

The Fairgrounds in Pomona, officially known as Fairplex, is a near-500-acre event complex in Southern California that has hosted the Los Angeles County Fair since 1922. It is also a year-round venue for concerts, trade shows, sports and cultural events.

“We’ve promised the world an incredible Olympic Games and today we’re proud to share the plan that will make it happen,” said LA28 CEO Reynold Hoover. “Los Angeles is the epicentre of sports, culture and entertainment, and every venue selected for the 2028 Games will provide athletes and fans the best possible experience.”

🌍 Global Stage for a Global Sport

Six teams will compete in both the men’s and women’s T20 competitions. The USA men’s team is expected to automatically qualify as hosts. However, the women’s team may need to qualify based on international rankings.

🌟 What It Means

The return of cricket to the Olympics is a major milestone for the sport. With a global fan base and growing popularity in the United States, this announcement is expected to energize fans and open new doors for cricket in America.

The LA28 Olympics promise a unique blend of tradition and innovation, and cricket’s reentry into the Games perfectly captures that spirit. The games will take place between July 14 and 30. The schedule for each sport, including cricket, will be finalised closer to the Games.

Sources: Olympics.com, AP News, The Times UK