In a significant move to reshape the future of international cricket, the International Cricket Council (ICC) has announced the formation of a Working Group to address a range of crucial global issues. These include the format structures across cricket and determining a qualification pathway for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!This development emerged from the Chief Executives’ Committee (CEC) meeting held in Singapore on Friday, July 18.
Key Mandate: LA28 Olympic Qualification Process
A major objective of the upcoming Working Group will be to recommend how teams will qualify for cricket’s return to the Olympic Games in Los Angeles. While a large portion of the ICC and other stakeholders favor using international rankings to determine the six men’s and six women’s teams, the final decision will rest with the newly formed group.
Some have proposed a qualification tournament, but given the tight international calendar and existing Future Tours Programme (FTP), this idea seems logistically difficult. The Working Group has been asked to explore all options and, if rankings are chosen, to recommend a cut-off date for eligibility.
Two-Tier Test Proposal Not Discussed – Yet
Interestingly, the often-debated two-tier Test structure did not come up for discussion at the CEC meeting. However, it is widely expected that the Working Group will review the future of Test cricket and assess whether structural reforms are required. The group may also suggest changes to ODI and T20I formats, ensuring all formats stay relevant in an evolving cricket landscape.
Minimum Age for International Cricket Stays at 15
Another important confirmation from the CEC meeting was that the minimum age for international cricket participation will remain 15 years, following recommendations from the ICC Medical Advisory Committee. However, the committee acknowledged that exceptions can be granted under special circumstances.
ICC to Explore Mobile Gaming Opportunities
As part of its broader digital expansion, the ICC will soon invite tenders for mobile gaming rights, indicating a strategic push into the ever-growing gaming industry to engage with younger and tech-savvy audiences.
What’s Next: ICC Board to Meet on Saturday
The Working Group’s formation could be finalized as early as Saturday, when the ICC Board convenes. The group will include members from both the Board and the CEC, and will be provided with a clear set of responsibilities and deliverables.
The ICC’s newly appointed CEO, Sanjog Gupta, chaired the CEC meeting, with Chair Jay Shah also present in his ex-officio capacity.
Major Decision Ahead: The Future of USA Cricket
In a parallel development, a critical decision regarding the future of USA Cricket (USAC) is also expected during Saturday’s Board meeting. A normalisation committee recently visited the United States and reportedly recommended the resignation of current USAC leadership. However, internal resistance is said to be complicating matters.
With Olympics 2028 set to take place in Los Angeles, the ICC’s decision on USAC’s status will carry significant implications for cricket’s Olympic debut in the U.S.