The International Cricket Council (ICC) has finalised the qualification format for men’s cricket at the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, sparking discontent from Pakistan and New Zealand over the proposed system.According to British media, the ICC will implement a regional qualifying format under which the top-ranked team from Asia, Oceania, Africa, and Europe will qualify directly for the Olympics.

USA will automatically qualify as the host nation, while the method for the sixth team’s qualification is yet to be finalised.Under this system, India, currently ranked No. 1, would qualify from Asia, leaving Pakistan (ranked 8th) at risk of missing a direct berth. Similarly, Australia (ranked No. 2) would qualify from Oceania, while New Zealand (ranked 4th) could miss out despite being among the top five teams.

The USA, ranked 17th, secures a spot as host, while England will represent Europe, with discussions ongoing about including players from Scotland and Ireland in the Olympic squad. The qualification process for women’s cricket will be based on the results of the 2026 T20 World Cup, while the International Olympic Committee (IOC) has endorsed ICC’s regional format. Cricket will return to the Olympics after 128 years, with six men’s and six women’s teams competing in the event.

Credit: Independent News Pakistan (INP)