New Delhi: Pakistan and New Zealand might fail to qualify for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics if the International Cricket Council adopts a regional qualifying format.
Cricket is set to return to Olympics after 128 years, for which the ICC is keen to awards spots based on the format favoured by the International Olympic Committee.
The IOC advocates a regional qualifying format to ensure pan-global representation at the Games to make it a truly worldwide event.
As only six teams will compete in the T20 format, Pakistan and New Zealand could miss out with India and Australia awarded spots from Asia and Oceania respectively, based on the ICC rankings, reports The Guardian.
At its annual general meeting in Singapore earlier this month, the ICC decided to use the regional qualifying system, though it needs ratification by the board.
Pakistan and New Zealand have expressed their displeasure though that is unlikely to be enough to reverse ICC’s stance, the British daily reported.
As per the proposal, the highest ranked team from Asia, Oceania, Europe and Africa get direct berths alongside hosts USA, who would represent the Americas.
West Indies participation under cloud too
It would mean West Indies would not be eligible too but one of the Caribbean nations could get a look in if USA’s governance issues are not resolved in time for the Games.
The ICC has already asked the USA Cricket’s Board to resign, as it needs to secure mandatory national governing body status from the country’s Olympic body to participate at LA28 Games.
According to the ICC rankings, India, Australia, South Africa and Great Britain are guaranteed automatic spots, along with the hosts, though the final slots are yet to be decided.
Fourth-placed New Zealand miss out as Australia are second in the rankings, with India topping the chart where Pakistan are eighth. West Indies are sixth while USA are 17th.
The ICC is yet to comment on the matter.