The 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles are already creating a buzz– and one of the biggest headlines is the return of cricket to the Olympic stage. For the first time since 1900, the sport will be part of the Games, this time in its fastest and most thrilling format: T20. But that’s not all. LA28 is bringing in a fresh mix of sports that blend American favorites with global trends. Baseball is making a comeback, and for the first time ever, flag football will debut as an Olympic sport. With this exciting and diverse line-up, the 2028 Olympics are shaping up to be one of the most dynamic editions yet– offering something for everyone, from die-hard sports fans to curious newcomers.
Cricket’s journey in the Olympics began way back in 1900– and ended just as quickly, with only one match ever played. Now, over a century later, the sport is making a much-anticipated return at the LA 2028 Games, and it’s already generating global excitement. As per a TOI report, this time, cricket will be played in its shortest and most action-packed format: T20. Known for its quick pace, big hits, and nail-biting finishes, T20 cricket has changed how the game is played and watched– making it a perfect fit for the fast-paced Olympic atmosphere.
Cricket isn’t the only new sport to join the 2028 Olympics. LA28 will see the debut of several fresh and exciting sports that reflect current trends and American sports culture. These sports are set to add a new layer of excitement to the Games, attracting both seasoned fans and newcomers alike. Baseball and softball, both hugely popular in the U.S. and internationally, will return to the Olympics after making their appearance in Tokyo 2020, as per a report presented by TOI. The decision to include them in the LA28 Games makes perfect sense, given the sport's deep roots in American culture. With countries like Japan, South Korea, and the Dominican Republic also strong contenders, the return of baseball and softball promises to deliver competitive and compelling action.
One of the unexpected additions to the LA28 Olympics is flag football– a non-contact, faster version of American football, as per a report presented by TOI. Making its Olympic debut, the sport is designed to be fast, fun, and easy to follow, which makes it ideal for global audiences. Its inclusion could help American football gain fans well beyond its usual borders.
Lacrosse is making a comeback at the Olympics for the first time since 1908– but this time in a new, fast-paced, six-a-side format, according to a TOI report. Called “sixes,” this version is quicker and high-scoring, fitting well with the Olympic schedule. The sport has strong roots in North America, especially among Indigenous communities, and its return honors that history while aiming to grow its global reach.
After years of hopeful campaigning, squash will make its long-awaited Olympic debut in Los Angeles, as per a report presented by TOI. Known for its speed, skill, and global following– especially in Europe, Asia, and Africa– the sport’s inclusion is a proud moment for players and fans. Squash is set to bring fast-paced and exciting competition to the world stage.
Looking specifically at cricket, the tournament will feature six teams competing in the T20 format for both men’s and women’s competitions. Each team will be allowed to name a 15-member squad, bringing the total athlete quota to 90 per gender. The International Cricket Council (ICC) currently has 12 full members, including cricketing powerhouses like India, Australia, England, and Pakistan, along with other nations such as Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Ireland, New Zealand, Sri Lanka, the West Indies, and Zimbabwe. Qualification criteria for the 2028 Games are yet to be confirmed, but the USA is likely to earn a direct spot as the host nation, meaning only five teams will qualify through the qualification process.
The excitement surrounding cricket’s return is palpable, especially considering its last appearance at the Olympics was in 1900, when Great Britain defeated France by 158 runs in a one-off match. The IOC approved cricket's inclusion for LA28 in 2023, alongside other new sports like baseball/softball, flag football, lacrosse (sixes), and squash. The inclusion of cricket is seen as a strategic move to engage the vast audience in the Indian subcontinent, as the sport enjoys immense popularity there.
In addition to cricket, the LA28 Olympics will also feature a record 351 medal events, with an athlete quota of 10,500, including an extra 698 quota places allocated for the five additional sports. For the first time in Olympic history, all team sports will have at least the same number of women’s teams as men’s, marking a significant step towards gender equality in sports.
The cricket segment of the Olympics is still in the planning stages, with the exact format likely to include a round-robin group stage, semi-finals, and a final, allowing for a maximum of seven games for any team. Discussions are ongoing regarding the venue for cricket, with the possibility that it may not take place in Los Angeles but could be held in New York to better accommodate Indian viewers.
As the countdown to the 2028 Olympics continues, the anticipation for cricket’s return is building, promising to deliver thrilling matches and showcase the sport on a global platform. Fans around the world are eager to see how the teams will perform in this high-stakes environment, and the inclusion of cricket is sure to elevate the excitement of the Games to new heights.
