In a significant development for global cricket, Pakistan is expected to miss out on the men’s cricket tournament at the Los Angeles Olympics 2028, following the International Cricket Council’s (ICC) approval of a controversial regional qualification system.
According to The Guardian, the decision came after discussions at the ICC’s annual general meeting held in Singapore. The council has finalized a format that allows the top-ranked team from each continent to qualify for the T20 tournament, while reserving one automatic slot for the host nation, United States.
This new qualification structure favors cricketing powerhouses like India, who are likely to secure the Asian spot, along with Australia (Oceania), South Africa (Africa), and Great Britain (Europe). The host nation USA will automatically qualify, leaving just one final spot up for grabs in the six-team event.
Unfortunately for Pakistan, Sri Lanka, and New Zealand, this format leaves them out of direct qualification. Pakistan, despite its strong cricketing history, falls behind India in the ICC T20 rankings, effectively closing their direct path to the Olympics unless they can claim the final available berth.
One Final Spot: A Ray of Hope?
The final sixth slot remains undecided. Speculations suggest it could go to a Caribbean composite team, following the precedent set during the 2022 Commonwealth Games, where Barbados represented the region.
Interestingly, the ICC has raised concerns about governance issues within USA Cricket. If these aren’t resolved, there’s a slim possibility that one of the Caribbean nations could replace the USA.
Growing Concerns from Pakistan and New Zealand
Both Pakistan and New Zealand have expressed dissatisfaction with the ICC’s regional allocation model. Although the new format awaits final ratification by the ICC Board, insiders believe any reversal is highly unlikely due to backing from the International Olympic Committee (IOC). The IOC favors regional representation to globalize cricket and expand its reach.
Olympic Return After 128 Years
Cricket will return to the Olympic Games for the first time since 1900, where Great Britain claimed gold by defeating France. The LA 2028 Olympics will host both men’s and women’s T20 tournaments, with matches scheduled from July 12 to July 29, 2028. The women’s final will take place on July 20, while the men’s final is set for July 29.
While Pakistan’s absence would be a major disappointment for fans, the ICC’s focus appears firmly fixed on maximizing regional diversity and appealing to a broader global audience.
