Cricket’s long-awaited return to the Olympics has meant celebration worldwide, but in Pakistan, that isn’t the case as of yet. With only six teams set to compete in men’s cricket at the LA 2028 Games, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is preparing to mount a lobbying effort to avoid being left out of the sport’s historic comeback.
According to Telecom Asia Sport, the PCB plans to formally write to both the International Cricket Council (ICC) and the LA 2028 Games Organising Committee. The board will demand either a revised rankings cut-off date or the introduction of a qualifying tournament. Under the current regional qualification model, Asia’s lone automatic slot is almost certain to go to India, who are the current World T20 champions as well.
A PCB source told Telecom Asia Sport, “Olympics are a prestigious event, and with cricket included, we cannot afford to miss out. A letter will be sent to both the ICC and the LA Games Committee urging them to announce a qualification cut-off date, ideally one year prior to the Games.”
The board is likely to suggest that the qualification cut-off should come after the T20 World Cup early next year, giving teams a final chance to improve their standings.
Rashid Latif calls for urgency
Former Pakistan captain Rashid Latif has pointed out, urging the PCB to act decisively. He called for fairness in the process and suggested using the upcoming T20 World Cup standings as the basis for qualification. “PCB must engage with both the ICC and LA organisers. This is a golden opportunity to put Pakistan on the Olympic podium,” Latif said.
Pakistan, currently ranked eighth in T20Is, still has time to improve its position. The PCB is also reportedly in discussions with New Zealand Cricket, who face a similar threat of exclusion, to coordinate their lobbying.
Cricket will feature at the Olympics for the first time since 1900, and for Pakistan, this battle goes beyond qualification. It is about restoring pride, seizing a rare medal opportunity, and ensuring their presence on sport’s grandest stage.
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