ICC Chief Executive Sanjog Gupta, who was present at the ground-breaking ceremony, said cricket’s world governing body remains focused on expanding the sport globally, with its return to the Olympics marking a significant step towards that goal.
“This is a ‘ground-breaking’ moment in cricket’s return to the Olympic Games, both for the sport and for the Olympic movement,” he said.
“The journey over the next two years will see many such milestones which enhance the sense of occasion, culture and community, as cricket’s home for LA28 is built in Pomona.
“With the inclusion in the Olympic Games and other regional multi-sport events, cricket has already stepped into a new era of global growth powered by improved accessibility, elevated visibility and stronger institutional support.
“The momentum for our game has never been stronger, demonstrated by the recent ICC events which saw record-breaking stadia attendance as well as broadcast and digital engagement, coupled with deep cultural and socio-economic impact.
“Strong participation growth across the world and recent ‘fan-first’ efforts by the ICC to grow key markets will further bolster cricket’s march into the Olympics.”
