'Delighted...as a cricket-loving nation...': PM Modi welcomes cricket's inclusion in 2028 Olympics
PTC News Desk: Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Monday that as a cricket-loving country, India is very pleased that cricket has been included in the Los Angeles Olympics, showing the growing worldwide popularity of this "wonderful sport."
Cricket was formally included in the program for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics on Monday, providing a significant boost to the game's worldwide ambitions.
Aside from cricket, which will be played in the T20 format, the International Olympic Committee (IOC) approved squash, baseball/softball, lacrosse, and flag football during its 141st session.
Taking to X, PM Modi said, "Absolutely delighted that baseball-softball, cricket, flag football, lacrosse and squash will feature in @LA28. This is great news for sportspersons."
"As a cricket-loving nation, we specially welcome inclusion of cricket, reflecting the rising global popularity of this wonderful sport," he added.
After the recommendation of the Executive Board was put to a vote by a raising of hands, IOC president Thomas Bach made the announcement of cricket's inclusion alongside other sports.
Only two of the 99 IOC members voted against including the five sports recommended by the LA28 Organising Committee.
Niccolo Campriani, Italy's Olympic champion shooter and sports director at LA28, mentioned Indian superstar Virat Kohli's popularity during his pitch to the IOC in Mumbai.
- ANI
