Cricket could be a part of Los Angeles Olympics in 2028; BCCI to field both men’s and women’s teams

Cricket could be a part of Los Angeles Olympics in 2028; BCCI to field both men’s and women’s teams

Cricket hasn’t been a part of the Summer Olympics only once in the history of the Games. It was played in 1900 when Great Britain won the gold medal defeating the only other participant and host France. Since then the game has not featured, but there have been talks to include it and recently, the International Cricket Council (ICC) has formed a committee to discuss as to how cricket can make it to the Olympics.

The committee has been dealing with the International Olympic Committee (IOC) and there have been positive discussions over the course of the last few months. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) was initially reluctant to come under the National Anti-Doping Agency and hence, to back the bid of the ICC. However, with it now coming under NADA, it has decided to back the bid.

BCCI official speaks on decision to send teams

BCCI
BCCI

A senior BCCI official reportedly spoke to TOI about the decision to send men’s and women’s teams and said, “The board is agreeable to send both its teams if cricket makes it the cut for the LA Olympics. It will be a boost for both men’s and women’s cricket.”

“If BCCI will retain its autonomous status or be deemed as a national sports federation can be handled later. At this moment, it’s important that BCCI plays its part in expanding the sport,” the official said. “The board is now putting more emphasis in growing the women’s game. More exposure to bigger events help the game grow in the country. Birmingham CWG (Commonwealth Games) is just the first step,” he added.

What seemed like a distant dream could soon turn into reality if the ICC backs its bid more vociferously and the IOC agrees to it.

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