2022 T20 WC winners (Photo Source: Twitter)
Cricket is a game that has had the history of producing some of the most iconic moments in sporting history. However, due to its five-day-long nature, it never found a long-term spot for an official medal event for the greatest sports gathering. But as time evolved and the 20-over format emerged, it gave rise to modern-day cricket. With the shortest format of the game, cricket might make its return to The Olympics for the event in 2028 scheduled to be held in Los Angeles, USA.
Notably, the last time Cricket was played at the Olympics was in the 1900 Paris Olympics, wherein the Great Britain contingent tasted Gold. The return of cricket to this stage surely marks a historic moment, as it is among the most viewed sporting events across the world. Notably, the International Cricket Council (ICC), the apex cricketing body, made great efforts to enlist the game and send it to be approved by the International Olympic Committee (IOC).
ICC’s Chairman Greg Barclay expressed his excitement, labelling it as a ‘significant landmark’ for the rich history of the game.
“We are delighted that LA28 have recommended cricket for inclusion in the Olympics. Whilst this is not the final decision, it is a very significant landmark towards seeing cricket at the Olympics for the first time in more than a century,” Barclay was saying as quoted as per ICC.
Barclay also extended his gratitude towards the LA28 body for their support and belief in a possible inclusion of the game for the event.
“I’d like to thank LA28 for their support during the new sport evaluation process over last two years and we look forward to the final decision being taken at the IOC Session, in India, during the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup next week,” he added.
Recently, cricket was also made a part of the 2022 Hangzhou Asian Games, wherein the Indian team led by Ruturaj Gaikwad defeated Afghanistan to bag the Gold medal.