JOA boss welcomes move to include cricket in LA2028

Cricket looks set to make a return to the Olympic stage for the first time since the 1900 Paris Olympics following an announcement earlier this week from governing body, the International Olympic Association (IOC), that the sport along with baseball, softball, flag football, lacrosse and squash were proposed for inclusion at the 2028 Olympics to be hosted in Los Angeles, United States.

President of the Jamaica Olympic Association (JOA), Christopher Samuda, hailed the move for cricket’s inclusion as ‘welcoming news’ and believes its inclusion on the pinnacle of the world’s sporting stage is an achievement.

“The welcome news that cricket is now recommended to be on the Olympic agenda for LA2028 is a result of years of strong advocacy and a fitting achievement for a sport that has given value and inspiration to sport’s humanity of cricketers and to fans in the stands and pavilion an appetite for sporting greatness” Samuda said.

The IOC will now issue their recommendation to its executive body which will present their proposal at the 141st IOC session during its meeting in Mumbai, India, October 15-17. President Samuda said that cricket lovers are waiting with fingers crossed and bated breath that the sport will indeed get the green light at the conference.

“I’m very optimistic that it will be ratified next week by the IOC and between now and LA2028 the sport will inevitably grow in popularity in the United States mass market and so, too, its commercialisation, and if the business strategy is right the sport can transform broadcasting rights and revenue in the Olympic movement,” Samuda said.

The JOA president added that as a country, Jamaica should start its preparation as soon as possible for this historic move that not only includes cricket but the other four potential inductees in softball, baseball, squash and lacrosse.

“The wicket has been set by the IOC and it’s time to bowl off and Jamaica must be ready to make deliveries that are historic. Cricket is joined by lacrosse, a sport that continues to mine success for Jamaica with a visionary board of directors and talented players.

“Squash, softball and baseball are also taking their place at the table for which our local associations are very pleased, and so is the Jamaica Olympic Association. Let the games begin with a myriad of opportunities for our aspiring youth in cricket, lacrosse, softball, baseball and squash who the JOA will continue to support under our all for sport, sport for all growth policy,” Samuda reiterated.

orane.buchanan@gleanerjm.com