2028 Olympic cricket likely set for New York instead of LA

CRICKET's anticipated return to the Olympics in 2028 may take place nearly 4,000 kilometres from Los Angeles, with New York state likely to host the matches, primarily to accommodate Indian viewers.

According to The Times, the Los Angeles 2028 organising committee, led by chairman Casey Wasserman, is considering New York’s east coast time zone as more favourable for Indian broadcast schedules.

The competition will feature both men’s and women’s T20 formats, marking cricket’s Olympic comeback since its lone appearance in 1900.

The format is expected to include eight teams divided into two groups, followed by semi-finals, a final, and a bronze medal match.

Although no official decision has been made, the International Cricket Council (ICC) has confirmed to The Times that discussions are underway.

Hosting the event in New York could help attract new audiences from the Indian subcontinent, bolstering broadcasting opportunities.

Additionally, relocating the tournament could address the logistical strain of housing cricket teams in Los Angeles’s Olympic village, which would require space for about 320 additional athletes and support staff.

While New York lacks a dedicated cricket stadium, potential solutions include a pop-up stadium, similar to the one used during the recent T20 World Cup, or a new venue planned for Marine Park, Brooklyn, by Reliance Industries’ MI New York franchise.

Despite logistical advantages, some athletes have expressed concerns that the competition might lack the distinctive Olympic atmosphere if held away from the main site.