Cricket’s return to the Olympics after 128 years is already causing a lot of buzz, especially the India-Pakistan match. A new qualification rule may give India a direct entry while Pakistan might not even make it to the tournament.
According to a report, India is likely to get a spot in the LA 2028 men’s T20 event. The ICC is going to follow the regional format as suggested by the International Olympic Committee. The top team from Asia, Oceania, Europe and Africa will qualify along with the USA as hosts. One more spot will be decided later.
So India, Australia, England and South Africa will get a direct entry. But Pakistan and New Zealand, though higher in the T20I rankings than the USA, might not make it. The USA is guaranteed a spot as the host nation even though they are ranked 17th in the ICC T20 rankings.
Pakistan, currently behind India in the Asian rankings, has objected to this plan. They think Olympic qualifications should be based on merit not regional considerations. Missing out on the Games for the first time since 1900 would be a huge blow to their goals and global presence.
India’s inclusion was always on the cards given their success and huge fan base but Pakistan’s exclusion will make the match even more intense. The final qualification spot and format is still being discussed but unless the ICC changes its approach, India will make Olympic history and Pakistan will be out.
