Published: December 12, 2024
New Delhi: The inclusion of cricket in the 2032 Brisbane Olympics is becoming a hot topic as ICC Chairman Jay Shah’s visit to Brisbane stirs optimism among cricket enthusiasts worldwide. Shah, who assumed his role as ICC Chairman on December 1, 2024, met with Cindy Hook, CEO of the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games Organising Committee (OCOG), during his trip to Australia.
Discussions with OCOG and Vision for Cricket
Shah’s meeting with Cindy Hook highlights cricket’s growing potential as a global sport and its readiness to make a significant mark in the Olympic movement. In a post shared on social media, Shah expressed enthusiasm about the discussions, calling it “a very exciting time ahead for cricket’s involvement in the Olympics movement.”
His visit coincides with the third Test between India and Australia at Gabba, which begins on December 14, further underscoring the importance of Brisbane in cricket’s growing narrative on the global stage.
Cricket’s Return to the Olympics
Cricket is already set to return to the Olympics in the 2028 Los Angeles Games after a 128-year hiatus. The sport’s only previous appearance was in the 1900 Paris Games, where Great Britain defeated France by 158 runs in a single-match format.
The potential inclusion of cricket in the 2032 Brisbane Olympics would mark a continuation of the sport’s growing presence in the Olympic landscape. Cricket’s T20 format, in particular, is seen as a strong contender for fitting into the fast-paced and dynamic nature of modern Olympic events.
Jay Shah’s Vision for Cricket
As the youngest ICC Chairman at 36, Jay Shah is charting a forward-looking course for the sport. His focus on global inclusivity and fan engagement aligns with cricket’s Olympic aspirations.
“This is an exciting time for the sport as we prepare for the LA28 Olympic Games and work to make cricket more inclusive and engaging for fans worldwide. Cricket holds immense potential globally, and I look forward to working closely with the ICC team and Member countries to seize these opportunities and take the sport to new heights,” Shah remarked in a recent statement.
Significance of Shah’s Appointment
Shah’s rise to ICC leadership marks a milestone for Indian cricket, as he becomes the fifth Indian to head the global cricketing body, following legends like Jagmohan Dalmiya, Sharad Pawar, N. Srinivasan, and Shashank Manohar. His appointment underscores India’s influence in shaping cricket’s future on the global stage.
Cricket in the 2032 Brisbane Olympics: What’s Next?
While the discussions are in their early stages, Shah’s meeting with Brisbane’s Olympic Committee is a promising step toward cementing cricket’s presence in the 2032 Games. The sport’s inclusion would not only expand its global footprint but also provide a platform for showcasing cricket to new audiences.
Stay tuned to Board of Sports in India (BOSI) for further updates on cricket’s journey to the Olympics and other developments in the world of sports.
