Cricket will make its long-awaited return at the Los Angeles 2028 Olympics, marking its first Olympic appearance since the 1900 Paris Games.
The International Cricket Council has finalized the qualification structure, confirming that six men’s and six women’s teams will compete in the T20 format.
Four direct qualification spots will go to the highest-ranked teams from Asia, Africa, Europe, and Oceania, based on ICC rankings and major tournament performances. Host nation United States can qualify automatically if ranked among the top 15 teams, while the final place will be decided through a separate ICC qualifying tournament featuring eight teams.
For Pakistan, the qualification journey remains challenging. To qualify directly, Pakistan must finish as Asia’s top-ranked team in ICC Men’s T20 rankings by December 31, 2026 — a position currently dominated by India.
If Pakistan fails to achieve that ranking, it will need to win the 2027 ICC Olympic Qualifier to book its place at Los Angeles 2028.
In women’s cricket, Australia, India, Great Britain, and South Africa have already secured direct Olympic qualification. Pakistan Women have missed direct entry and must now qualify through the 2027 ICC Women’s Olympic Qualifier, where only the tournament winner will claim the final Olympic berth.
Pakistan’s Olympic dream is still alive, but both teams face a highly competitive road ahead.
