The International Cricket Council (ICC) has finalized the qualification process for men’s cricket teams participating in the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. As the host nation, the United States will automatically qualify for the event. However, the proposed qualification formula has drawn criticism from the cricket boards of Pakistan and New Zealand.
According to British media reports, the ICC plans to implement a regional qualifying format for the Olympics. Under this system, top-ranked teams from Asia, Oceania, Africa, and Europe will directly qualify. The sixth team’s qualification method is yet to be decided.
Pakistan and New Zealand have expressed dissatisfaction with this approach. Under the proposed format, Pakistan’s direct qualification seems unlikely, as the team currently ranks 8th in the ICC rankings, while India holds the top spot in Asia and will qualify directly.
In the Oceania region, despite being ranked 4th in the world, New Zealand will miss out, as Australia—ranked 2nd globally—will secure the spot as the top team in the region.
The U.S., despite being ranked 17th in the world, will qualify as the host nation. Great Britain will represent Europe, and discussions are already underway between the England and Wales Cricket Board, Cricket Scotland, and Cricket Ireland to form the Great Britain team.
Cricket is making a return to the Olympics after 128 years, with both men’s and women’s competitions featuring six teams each. Qualification for the women’s teams will be determined through the upcoming ICC Women’s T20 World Cup scheduled for next year.