Cricket is preparing for its long-awaited return to the Olympics in the next edition in Los Angeles in 2028. However, reports suggest a potential exclusion of cricket from the 2026 Asian Games in Nagoya, Japan.
Even if cricket made a strong return at the 2023 Asian Games in Hangzhou, China, its place in the continent’s biggest multi-sport competition is now in doubt. Many people are surprised by the news, especially in light of the recent public endorsement of cricket’s participation by the Japanese organising committee and the Olympic Council of Asia (OCA).
OCA deputy director general Vinod Kumar Tiwari stated, “The organising committee is very keen on including that (cricket) in the Asian Games in 2026.”
Insider sources, however, indicate that despite plans to convert a baseball stadium in Nagoya for cricket matches, logistical obstacles might be too great to overcome. The possible ban might have a significant impact on cricket’s expansion into non-traditional regions.
Including cricket in the 2026 Asian Games is crucial: Alan Curr
The Asia Games are critical to the growth of cricket, according to Alan Curr, chief of operations at the Japan Cricket Association.
“It is crucial to introduce cricket to the public and secure its place in the 2026 Asian Games. Cricket is viewed as a lesser sport in nations where it is not played,” Curr remarked.
Under the direction of Jay Shah, the Asian Cricket Council is still in communication with the appropriate authorities. Shah, who was instrumental in cricket’s successful bid to host the 2028 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles, has been working to take the game outside of its traditional South Asian borders.
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Nine women’s teams and fifteen men’s teams competed at the Hangzhou Asian Games last year, including India, which had not been in the games in 2010 or 2014. India’s ability to win two gold medals in cricket while fielding a men’s second-string side demonstrated the depth of skill in the nation.
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