Cricket will return to the Olympics for the first time in 128 years, and this time it will feature both a men’s and a women’s competition. 

The last time cricket was played at the Olympics was in 1900, during the Paris Games. Each competition will feature six national teams and will be played in the T20 format. 

?? Pomona, California ??

Where chapters of cricket's story at the Olympics are to be written ??https://t.co/mpUfycpBGx

— ICC (@ICC) April 16, 2025

The shortest version of the game is also the fastest-growing, offering a more entertaining experience for players and spectators alike. Matches are typically completed in under four hours. The cricket competitions will take place at Fairgrounds in Pomona, Southern California. 

The ICC has welcomed the decision, viewing it as a major milestone in the sport’s journey back to the Olympic stage.

“We welcome the announcement of the venue for cricket in Los Angeles 2028, as it’s a significant step in preparing for our sport’s return to the Olympics,” said ICC Chair Jay Shah. “Although cricket is already hugely popular, featuring in the Olympics – especially in the fast-paced, exciting T20 format – presents a fantastic opportunity to reach new audiences and grow the game globally.

Tazmin Brits. Photo: Cricinfo

“On behalf of the ICC, I’d like to express my gratitude to LA28 and the International Olympic Committee for their support. We look forward to working closely with them and our ICC Members to prepare for LA28 and ensure cricket is a major success at the Games.”

For the hard-hitting Proteas Women’s opening batter, Tazmin Brits, this could be a second opportunity to become an Olympian. She had qualified to represent South Africa in javelin at the 2012 London Games but was unable to compete due to a serious car accident.

The other five sports that will feature at LA28 are baseball, softball, flag football, lacrosse, and squash.

OFM Sport/Morgan Piek mvh