Cricket's Absence at the 2026 Commonwealth Games: Fans React and Share Perspectives

Cricket not to be part of Commowealth Games 2026

Cricket will not be part of Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, which will take place from July 23 to August 2, 2026, according to ESPNCricinfo. Only ten disciplines will feature in the competition this time and Cricket, which made its return during the 2022 Commonwealth Games in Birmingham through a women's T20 tournament after its last appearance in 1998 Kuala Lumpur CWG, is not in schedule. Australia had won the tournament, beating Harmanpreet Kaur-led India narrowly in the final. Australian women's team was led by legendary, multi-time World Cup-winning captain Meg Lanning. There are no specific reasons given yet for the scrapping of the sport from the schedule along with field hockey, badminton, shooting and wrestling, among others. "The 2026 Games will be a bridge to the Commonwealth Games of tomorrow - an exciting first step in our journey to reset and redefine the Games as a truly collaborative, flexible and sustainable model for the future that minimises costs, reduces the environmental footprint, and enhances social impact - in doing so increasing the scope of countries capable of hosting," CWG CEO Katie Sadleir said, according to ESPNCricinfo, Budgets, it would appear, is the reason for a much-more trimmed down CWG 2026. This comes when cricket is all set for its return to Olympics, in the 2028 Los Angeles edition, after 128 years. Cricket was a part of Olympics back in 1900 and will now feature in T20 format in the LA Olympics. Great Britain had won the cricket gold medal in 1900, beating France in the final. Cricket was also brought back to the Asian Games in Hangzhou last year after 2014, with a multi-nation T20 tournament for men's and women's teams. India secured both the top prizes, with Afghanistan and Bangladesh winning silver and bronze respectively among the men, and Sri Lanka and Bangladesh getting silver and bronze in the women's category. The decision to add cricket to the Olympics 2028 was taken at the 141st International Olympic Committee (IOC) session held in Mumbai during October last year. "Some of you might be wondering why [cricket] in LA," Niccolo Campriani, director of the LA2028 local organising committee, had said back then announcing the sport's return. "Well, the commitment to grow cricket in the US is real, and it has already happening with the launch of the very first Major League Cricket season earlier this year, which exceeded all expectations. And the [men's] T20 World Cup in 2024 coming to US and West Indies," he concluded.

Forum Discussion on the Exclusion of Cricket from the 2026 Commonwealth Games

Rajesh: I can't believe cricket won't be part of the Commonwealth Games! After making such a great comeback in 2022, this feels like a huge step back for the sport. Aisha: I agree, Rajesh! It's disappointing. The women's T20 tournament was a fantastic addition, and it showcased so much talent. Why would they remove such a popular sport? Vikram: I think it's mostly about budgets. With only ten disciplines, they must be cutting costs. But it does make you wonder if they'll ever reconsider cricket's place in future games. Nisha: True, Vikram. But removing cricket seems like a missed opportunity. It's one of the most followed sports globally, and not including it feels like they're ignoring a massive fan base. Karan: As a cricket fan, I feel let down. But on the other hand, cricket is returning to the Olympics in 2028! That could be a significant chance for the sport to shine on an even bigger stage. Meera: Exactly, Karan! But it also raises questions about how cricket will fit into the Olympic framework. Will it still attract the same level of enthusiasm? Rajesh: That's an interesting point, Meera. The success of Major League Cricket in the US might help grow the sport there, but will it translate to international competitions? Aisha: And let's not forget about the Asian Games last year! India dominated those tournaments. It shows there's still plenty of interest and potential for growth. Vikram: I'm curious about how the Commonwealth Games will evolve in the future. Katie Sadleir mentioned redefining the Games for sustainability. Could that mean more changes coming? Nisha: I hope they don't cut out too many sports just to save money. Every sport adds to the cultural richness of the Games. Karan: It's all about finding the right balance. Sports should represent diverse interests, and cricket is part of that diversity for many nations. Meera: Let's hope this isn't the end for cricket in the Commonwealth Games. Maybe if enough fans voice their opinions, we can see some change for future editions! Rajesh: Fingers crossed! Until then, let's support our teams in whatever competitions they're a part of!