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Cricket Returns to the Olympics: Makeshift Venue in Pomona, California to Host LA28 Matches
Historic Comeback After 128 Years
Cricket is set to make a remarkable return to the Olympic stage at the Los Angeles 2028 Summer Games (LA28), after a gap of 128 years. The sport, introduced in the T20 format, will be played in Southern California’s city of Pomona, marking its debut in the region during a global Olympic event.
The LA28 Organizing Committee officially announced that cricket matches will take place at a purpose-built temporary venue at the Fairplex fairgrounds in Pomona, located on the West Coast of the United States. This marks a significant moment for the sport as it expands its presence in non-traditional markets.
Why Pomona Was Chosen Over the East Coast
Initially, there were discussions to host cricket matches on the East Coast, particularly in New York, which successfully hosted eight matches during the last T20 World Cup. However, after multiple evaluations, LA28 opted for Southern California as the final venue for logistical and infrastructural benefits.
Pomona’s Fairplex offers ample space for a temporary international-standard cricket venue, with ease of access and proximity to Los Angeles. Its selection underlines LA28’s vision to create innovative and sustainable venues that serve both athletes and spectators.
Format and Participation
Six Teams in Both Men’s and Women’s Competitions
The Olympic cricket competition will feature six teams each in both men’s and women’s categories. Matches will follow the T20 format, which is globally popular for its fast-paced, viewer-friendly structure. The inclusion of cricket is expected to draw massive attention from South Asia, Australia, the UK, and emerging markets like the United States.
This move is seen as a strategic expansion of the Olympics’ global footprint by embracing a sport followed by over two billion fans worldwide.
ICC’s Reaction and Global Impact
The International Cricket Council (ICC) has applauded the decision. ICC Chair Jay Shah said, “Cricket is a hugely popular sport, and this is a fantastic opportunity to take it beyond its traditional boundaries. Featuring in the Olympics will help cricket reach new audiences, especially in North America.”
This announcement is expected to boost cricket’s presence in the United States, especially as the country prepares to co-host the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup in 2026.
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The reintroduction of cricket into the Olympics at LA28 is a landmark moment not only for the sport but also for the global Olympic movement. Hosting the event in Southern California demonstrates cricket’s growing global appeal and the Olympics’ commitment to embracing new sports that unite fans across continents.
As excitement builds for LA28, cricket fans worldwide will be watching closely as the sport gears up to take center stage in the United States.
Read the official ICC statement here
