Cricket Eyes Historic Olympic Return: PCB to Lobby for LA28 Spot

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is reportedly gearing up for an intensive lobbying effort to ensure its participation in cricket’s anticipated return to the Olympic Games at Los Angeles 2028.

Reports suggest that concerns have arisen regarding the potential exclusion of both Pakistan and New Zealand under the current qualifying structure.

Cricket is set to make its second appearance in the history of the Olympics, with its debut at the Paris 1900 Games. The LA28 Organising Committee has tentatively scheduled the men’s and women’s T20 cricket tournaments from July 20 to 29, planning for six teams in each division.

It is anticipated that organizers will employ a regional qualification system, consistent with established Olympic procedures. Current discussions point towards India (Asia) and Australia (Oceania) securing direct qualification via regional rankings.

Other probable qualifiers encompass Great Britain (Europe), South Africa (Africa), and the United States as the host nation. The final slot remains unconfirmed, with potential contenders including a Caribbean nation or another highly ranked Asian team.

Under the existing framework, Pakistan and New Zealand could potentially miss out. The PCB, however, is said to be committed to challenging this arrangement.

A source stated, “The Olympics represent a prestigious stage, and with cricket’s inclusion, our absence would be a significant setback.”

The source further added, “A formal request will be submitted to both the ICC and the LA Games Committee, urging them to set a qualification deadline – ideally one year prior to the commencement of the Games.”

Meanwhile, former Pakistan captain Rashid Latif has urged the PCB to adopt a proactive strategy.

Latif commented, “The Olympics hold immense prestige, with a medal at stake. The qualification standards should mirror the distribution of teams across regions, or a transparent ranking-based deadline should be implemented.”

He emphasized the need for a selection process based on fairness and performance for the 2028 Olympics, stressing that Pakistan must act decisively.

He further suggested, “The PCB should actively engage with both the ICC and the LA Committee, advocating for the use of the T20 World Cup standings from March of the upcoming year as the foundation for Olympic qualification.”