The International Cricket Council (ICC) has marked a significant milestone in cricket’s global expansion with the commencement of construction for a dedicated stadium ahead of the 2028 Summer Olympics. The venue, located at the Fairplex Grounds in Pomona, California, will host cricket’s historic return to the Olympic Games after a gap of 128 years, underlining the sport’s growing international reach.
A ceremony was held in Pomona, attended by several key figures including LA28 Vice President of Sports Niccolò Campriani, Pomona Mayor Tim Sandoval, Consul General of India in Los Angeles Dr. K. J. Srinivasa, Knight Riders Sports CEO Venky Mysore, and Fairplex President and CEO Walter Marquez. The event symbolised a significant milestone in preparations for LA28, where cricket will feature in the T20 format for both men’s and women’s competitions.
ICC Chairman Jay Shah described the occasion as a landmark for the sport and its massive global fan base. “These are very exciting times for the game of cricket as it makes giant strides in establishing itself as a global sport,” he said, highlighting the momentum cricket has built in recent years. Emphasising the broader vision, Shah added, “Our focus has been on expanding the footprint of cricket and being part of the Olympic movement is something that brings both pride and dreams with it.”
The construction of the Pomona stadium is expected to play a key role not only during the Games but also in the long-term development of cricket in the United States. Shah stressed the importance of this legacy, stating, “The groundbreaking marks an important milestone in cricket’s return to the Olympics and is a proud moment for all ICC Members and stakeholders worldwide. We’re confident this venue will take centre-stage during the Games and leave a legacy for cricket in the USA.”
Also present at the ceremony was ICC Chief Executive Sanjog Gupta, who reinforced the significance of the moment for both cricket and the Olympic movement. “This is a ‘ground-breaking’ moment in cricket’s return to the Olympic Games, both for the sport and for the Olympic movement,” he said. Looking ahead, Gupta pointed to the journey leading up to LA28, adding, “The journey over the next two years will see many such milestones which enhance the sense of occasion, culture and community, as cricket’s home for LA28 is built in Pomona.”
The inclusion of cricket in the Olympics is expected to accelerate its growth in emerging markets, particularly in the Americas, by increasing visibility and participation. With T20 cricket offering a fast-paced and accessible format, the Games provide an opportunity to attract new audiences and inspire a new generation of players.
The 2028 Summer Olympics, scheduled from July 14 to 30, will mark cricket’s first appearance at the event since 1900. As construction begins in Pomona, the ICC’s ambition of establishing cricket as a truly global sport continues to gain momentum, with the Olympic stage set to be a defining chapter in that journey.
Loves all things female cricket