Cricket’s long-awaited return to the Olympic stage at Los Angeles 2028 may not guarantee fans the iconic Pakistan–India clash. The International Cricket Council (ICC) is finalizing a continental qualification format to determine the six participating teams.
The qualification pathway, discussed during the ICC Board meeting in Dubai, aims to ensure representation from each region. According to the proposed model, the top-ranked team from every continent will earn direct qualification to the Games.
India Likely to Secure Asia’s Direct Olympic Spot
Under this format, India is expected to secure the direct berth for Asia based on its ranking. Australia will likely represent Oceania, South Africa is projected to qualify from Africa, while Great Britain is expected to take the European slot.
However, the Americas’ qualification remains uncertain. The United States could receive automatic entry as the host nation, yet the West Indies remain strong contenders for the continental position. The ICC has not made a final decision on this aspect.
Pakistan Among Teams Facing Uncertain Qualification
This proposed qualification route leaves major cricketing nations, including Pakistan, New Zealand, Sri Lanka, and Bangladesh, without automatic entry. To address this gap, the ICC is planning a global qualifier to decide the sixth and final team for the event.
A senior administrator familiar with the discussions stated that the qualification roadmap has been largely agreed upon, though official details will be released soon. The final plan aims to balance competitiveness with global representation, ensuring fair access for top-performing nations.
Cricket’s Olympic Comeback After 128 Years
Cricket’s inclusion in the Los Angeles 2028 Olympics marks its return to the Games after 128 years. The sport was last played at the 1900 Paris Olympics, where Great Britain defeated France in a single match to win gold.
The 2028 edition will feature both men’s and women’s tournaments in the T20 format. According to the confirmed schedule, the events will take place from July 12 to July 29, 2028. The women’s medal match will be held on July 20, while the men’s final is set for July 29.
Global Anticipation Builds Despite Qualification Concerns
While the ICC’s proposed structure ensures geographical diversity, it has drawn mixed reactions from fans and analysts. Many believe the format risks excluding historically dominant teams like Pakistan, potentially reducing the intensity of Olympic cricket.
Nevertheless, cricket’s re-entry into the Olympics is being celebrated as a historic step for the sport’s global growth. The final qualification details are expected soon, as cricket fans worldwide wait to see whether Pakistan will make it to Los Angeles 2028.
