Cricket likely to be omitted from Asian Games 2026

Cricket is preparing for its long-awaited return to the Olympics in the next edition in Los Angeles in 2028. However, reports suggest a potential exclusion of cricket from the 2026 Asian Games in Nagoya, Japan.

After making a successful comeback at the 2023 Asian Games in Hangzhou, China, cricket's future at the continent's premier multi-sport event is now in jeopardy. The development is a surprise to many, especially considering the recent public support from both the Olympic Council of Asia (OCA) and the Japanese organising committee for cricket's inclusion.

"The organizing committee is very keen on including that (cricket) in the 2026 Asian Games," OCA deputy director general Vinod Kumar Tiwari said.

However, inside sources reveal that logistical challenges may prove too difficult to overcome, despite proposals to repurpose a baseball stadium in Nagoya for cricket matches. The potential exclusion could have far-reaching consequences for cricket's growth in non-traditional markets.

It's very important to get cricket into the 2026 Asian Games: Alan Curr

Alan Curr, head of operations at the Japan Cricket Association, emphasised the importance of the Asian Games for the sport's development.

"It's very important to get cricket into the 2026 Asian Games and put the game in front of people. For non-playing countries, cricket is seen as a minor sport," Curr said.

The Asian Cricket Council, led by Jay Shah, continues to engage in discussions with relevant authorities. Shah, who played a crucial role in cricket's successful Los Angeles 2028 Olympic bid, has been trying to expand the sport beyond its traditional strongholds in South Asia.

Last year's Asian Games in Hangzhou saw participation from 15 men's teams and nine women's teams, including India, which had previously skipped the event in 2010 and 2014. India's double gold medal performance with a second-string men's team showed the country's depth of talent in cricket.