In a significant decision, cricket will not be a part of the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasglow, Scotland. Only 10 sports have been chosen for the event, leading to the exclusion of cricket, which was previously included in the 2022 edition. No specific reason was given for this decision, but Commonwealth Games Federation CEO Katie Sadleir hinted that the 2026 Games will pave the way for a more sustainable and inclusive model for future events. However, cricket will still have a chance to shine at the LA28 Olympics, after a 128-year hiatus, and was also included in the recent Asian Games.
Cricket Excluded from 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow
In a surprising decision, cricket will not be featured in the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, Scotland. This marks a significant departure from the 2022 edition, which included cricket as one of its sports.
Background on Cricket's Involvement in the Commonwealth Games
Cricket has been a part of the Commonwealth Games since the 1998 event in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. It was originally included as a men's competition, with women's cricket being added in 2010. In the 2022 Commonwealth Games held in Birmingham, England, both men's and women's cricket teams from 16 different nations competed.
Reasons for the Exclusion
The Commonwealth Games Federation (CGF) did not provide a specific reason for excluding cricket from the 2026 event. However, CGF CEO Katie Sadleir hinted that the decision was made in line with the goal of creating a more sustainable and inclusive Games model in the future.
Impact on Cricket
The exclusion of cricket from the Commonwealth Games has disappointed both cricket fans and officials. The International Cricket Council (ICC) released a statement expressing its regret for the decision, stating that cricket's absence "deprives Commonwealth athletes and fans of a popular and exciting sport."
Future Prospects
Despite its exclusion from the 2026 Commonwealth Games, cricket will still have a chance to appear at the 2028 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles. The Olympic Program Commission has recommended the inclusion of cricket, along with several other sports, for the LA28 Games. Cricket was last included in the Olympics at the 1900 Paris Games, and its potential return in 2028 has generated considerable excitement within the cricket community.
Top 5 FAQs and Answers Related to Commonwealth Games Cricket
1. Why was cricket excluded from the 2026 Commonwealth Games? The CGF did not provide a specific reason, but hinted at a desire for a more sustainable and inclusive Games model.
2. Has cricket ever been included in the Olympics before? Yes, cricket was included in the 1900 Paris Olympics.
3. Will cricket be included in the 2028 Olympics? The Olympic Program Commission has recommended cricket for inclusion in the 2028 LA28 Games.
4. Who won the men's cricket gold medal at the 2022 Commonwealth Games? Australia
5. Who won the women's cricket gold medal at the 2022 Commonwealth Games? Australia
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