Cricket inclusion in LA 2028 Olympics will have profound impact on sport's ecosystem: Jay Shah

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As cricket gains inclusion in the Olympic sports programme by the International Olympic Committee, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Monday (October 16) expressed its happiness over the development. Cricket has secured a place in the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.

In a watershed moment for the sport, the International Olympic Committee (IOC) announced on Monday (October 16) that cricket is to be incorporated into its sports program for the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles (LA28).

The ICC officially confirmed this significant step after the formal ratification of cricket's inclusion by the IOC at the 141st IOC Session in Mumbai, following a recommendation by LA28 last week.

Cricket's return to the Olympic Games, for the first time since 1900, marks the conclusion of a meticulous two-year process during which the ICC diligently crafted a compelling proposal aligned with Olympic values. The inclusion of cricket in the Olympic sports program is poised to introduce the sport to an entirely new audience. The Olympic Games boasts a massive estimated viewership of over 3 billion across TV and digital platforms.

Notably, Honorary Secretary of BCCI Jay Shah played a pivotal role within the ICC Olympics Working Group, significantly contributing to securing cricket's participation in the upcoming Los Angeles Olympics in 2028.

As per a BCCI statement Jay Shah - who is also the president of the Asian Cricket Council (ACC) - has been a fervent advocate for cricket's inclusion in various multi-sport events, championing its presence in events such as the Commonwealth Games and the recent Asian Games in China. India proudly clinched gold medals in both the Men's and Women's categories at the Asian Games.

Expressing his delight after cricket's inclusion in the Olympic sports programme, Shah - the BCCI office-bearer - commented, "The BCCI has consistently supported the ICC's endeavors to include cricket as an Olympic sport. We are elated to witness this momentous occasion, representing a significant milestone for the sport.

"Our active engagement has been instrumental in promoting the case for cricket's inclusion in the Olympics. This initiative aligns with the vision of India hosting the 2036 Olympics, as envisioned by our Honourable Prime Minister."

Jay Shah further added that the popularity of Indian cricket will play a pivotal role in promoting the game in unchartered territories. He further added, "The Indian Cricket Team boasts an unparalleled global fanbase, and their participation in this prestigious quadrennial event will undoubtedly enhance the sport's global stature."

"Our contributions were pivotal in securing cricket's presence at the Commonwealth Games 2022 in Birmingham and the Asian Games 2022 in Guangzhou, China. The inclusion of cricket in the Olympics is set to open new horizons for the sport, providing unprecedented exposure to untapped global markets."

Shah also claimed that the decision will yield significant financial rewards and have a profound, positive impact on the sport's ecosystem as it will fuel infrastructural development, foster youth development, and create opportunities in that region.

"The inclusion of cricket in the Olympics is set to open new frontiers for the sport, providing unparalleled exposure in untapped global markets. Moreover, we anticipate that this decision will yield significant financial dividends and have a profound positive impact on our sport's eco-system."

"It will fuel infrastructural development, intensify competition, foster youth development, and create opportunities for officials, volunteers, and skilled professionals," he signed off.