Cricket given Olympic status, Jay Shah feels ‘it aligns with PM Modi’s idea of India bidding for 2036 hosting rights’
On Monday, the IOC formally added cricket in the programme for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, which further increases the sport’s popularity on a global level. Cricket will be played in T20 format, and even squash, baseball, softball, lacrosse and flag football were the other sports to be added.
Venue staff walk past a digital screen on the first day of the 141st Session of the International Olympic Committee (IOC), in Mumbai(AFP)
The recommendation of the IOC Executive Board was put to vote through a raise of hands, and was opposed by only two of the 99 members. The ICC received a massive boost in its Olympic bid, receiving support from BCCI in 2021, who changed their stance. Earlier, the BCCI were opposed to such an idea, fearing a threat to their autonomy.
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BCCI Secretary Jay Shah had been instrumental within the ICC Olympics Working Group, in sealing cricket’s participation in 2028 Olympics. He was a strong advocate of including it in the Commonwealth Games and recent Asian Games.
“The BCCI has been a staunch supporter of the ICC’s efforts to include cricket as an Olympic sport. We are thrilled to witness this momentous occasion, which marks a significant milestone for the sport. Our active participation has been instrumental in promoting the case for cricket’s inclusion in the Olympics. This initiative aligns with the idea of India hosting the 2036 Olympics, as envisioned by our Hon’ble Prime Minister. 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”, Shah said.
“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 further added.
