Cricket returns to Olympics after 128 years but Pakistan could miss out: Here’s why

Cricket is poised to make a historic return to the Olympic Games after more than a century as the International Olympic Committee (IOC) has confirmed that the sport will feature in the Los Angeles 2028 Olympics, with six men’s and six women’s teams competing in the T20 format. However, Pakistan, a prominent force in the cricket world, may not qualify for this landmark event.

Cricket was last included in the Olympics in 1900, where a single two-day match between Great Britain and France was played, later recognized as an unofficial Test.

For the 2028 event, organizers have announced that each team can field a 15-player squad, totaling 90 athletes per gender. While the qualification process is yet to be finalized, the United States, as the host nation, is expected to secure automatic entry.

The remaining spots are likely to be awarded to the top five teams in the ICC rankings by a specified cut-off date.

Also read: World-famous EV maker BYD becomes PSL 10 sponsor

Pakistan’s chances of participation are uncertain due to its current ICC rankings—No. 7 in men’s T20I and No. 8 in women’s T20I. With leading nations like India, Australia, England, New Zealand, and South Africa dominating the rankings, Pakistan must improve its standings to secure a spot in the Olympics.