Cricket is finally coming back to the Olympics after more than a century, and the game’s enthusiasts around the globe are buzzing; however, Pakistan fans are worried. The Los Angeles 2028 Games will mark only the second time cricket has featured at the event.
But while the excitement is high, there’s a big question mark hanging over Pakistan’s participation. Media reports suggest the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is gearing up for a serious lobbying campaign to make sure the Green Shirts don’t get left out.
The Olympic Cricket Line-Up
From 20 to 29 July 2028, both men’s and women’s T20 cricket competitions will take place, with just six teams in each category. If you know how fiercely competitive international cricket is, you’ll realise that six slots mean heartbreak for quite a few big names.
The expected qualification model is based on regional representation, which is a common Olympic practice. According to early discussions, India (Asia) and Australia (Oceania) could get direct spots based on rankings. Great Britain (Europe), South Africa (Africa) and the USA (as hosts) are also tipped to qualify automatically.
That leaves one final spot. Who gets it? That’s the million-dollar question. It could go to a Caribbean nation or possibly another high-ranking Asian side. Unfortunately, under this format, both Pakistan and New Zealand risk being left on the sidelines.
Why is the PCB Concerned?
For Pakistan, missing out on LA28 would be more than just disappointing, it would be a massive blow to the nation’s cricketing pride.
“Olympics are a prestigious event, and with cricket included, we cannot afford to miss out,” a source within the PCB reportedly said.
The board’s plan is to write to both the International Cricket Council (ICC) and the LA Games Organising Committee, asking them to set a fair qualification cut-off date, ideally a year before the Games. That way, teams have enough time to fight for their spot rather than being locked out early.
Rashid Latif’s Call to Action
Former Pakistan captain Rashid Latif has also weighed in, and he’s not mincing his words.
“The Olympics are prestigious, and there’s a medal on the line,” Latif stressed. “The qualification criteria should reflect the percentage of teams in each region, or a fair ranking-based cut-off date must be set.”
Latif believes that instead of letting geography dictate too much, recent performance should carry real weight. His suggestion is to use the T20 World Cup standings from March next year as the basis for deciding who goes to LA.
If the PCB’s lobbying efforts pay off, Pakistan could have a fighting chance to join the historic event. But time is ticking. With the qualification model still up in the air, the board needs to work its diplomatic and cricketing connections hard.
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