Cricket is set to make a historic return to the Olympic Games after 128 years, with the sport confirmed for inclusion in the Los Angeles 2028 Olympics. Both men's and women's tournaments will feature six teams each, competing in the fast-paced Twenty20 (T20) format. This marks a significant milestone for cricket, which last appeared in the Olympics in 1900.

The decision to include cricket in LA 2028 was finalized during the 141st International Olympic Committee (IOC) Session held in Mumbai in October 2023. The inclusion aims to tap into cricket's vast global following, particularly in South Asia, and to introduce the sport to new audiences in the United States and beyond.

Each participating team will consist of up to 15 players, aligning with the athlete quota allocations set by the IOC. The qualification process for the tournaments has yet to be announced, but it's anticipated that the host nation, the United States, will receive automatic entry, leaving five spots open for other top-performing nations.

The inclusion of cricket is part of a broader initiative to modernize the Olympic program and promote gender equality. LA 2028 will feature a record 351 medal events, with an emphasis on mixed-gender competitions and equal representation across sports. Cricket's return is expected to enhance the Games' global appeal and provide a platform for the sport's growth in new markets.

Cricket's Olympic comeback has been met with enthusiasm from players and fans alike. Former Indian captain Virat Kohli expressed excitement about the sport's return to the Olympics, highlighting the opportunity for new athletes to showcase their talents on the world stage. Similarly, cricketing legends like Sachin Tendulkar and Babar Azam have lauded the decision, viewing it as a chance to inspire future generations and promote inclusivity in the sport.

The T20 format was chosen for its brevity and spectator-friendly nature, making it an ideal fit for the Olympic schedule. The format's popularity has surged globally, thanks in part to successful leagues like the Indian Premier League (IPL), and its inclusion in the Olympics is expected to further boost its profile.?

While specific venues for the cricket tournaments have not been announced, organizers are considering iconic locations in Los Angeles that can accommodate the unique requirements of the sport. The inclusion of cricket, along with other sports like baseball/softball, flag football, lacrosse, and squash, reflects the IOC's commitment to evolving the Olympic program to resonate with contemporary audiences.

As preparations for LA 2028 continue, the cricketing world eagerly anticipates the sport's return to the Olympic arena. The tournaments promise to deliver thrilling matches and unforgettable moments, celebrating cricket's rich history and its bright future on the global stage.