Pakistan May Miss 2028 Olympic Cricket Due to Limited Slots

Pakistan might not take part in the men’s cricket event at the 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles. The International Cricket Council (ICC) has confirmed only six teams will be allowed. Though not final, this rule is likely to remain, despite concerns from several countries.

The ICC’s plan uses regional rankings to decide who qualifies. Each continent’s top team will earn a spot. The United States is already included as the host. India may qualify from Asia, while Australia, South Africa, and Great Britain are also likely to join. This leaves only one open slot.

That last spot could go to a Caribbean team, especially if the USA is disqualified due to ongoing management problems. The Caribbean stepped in during the 2022 Commonwealth Games when Barbados played as the regional representative. The same approach could be used again.

The Olympic Committee supports this regional system to give all parts of the world a fair chance. However, nations like Pakistan and Sri Lanka feel left out. Both have strong cricket teams and a long history of success in the T20 format.

Cricket is returning to the Olympics after more than a century. The matches will take place from July 12 to July 29, 2028. The men’s final will be on July 29, while the women’s final is scheduled for July 20. Fans are excited, but some major teams might be watching from home.