Cricket may be omitted from the 2026 Asian Games, which are scheduled to take place in Aichi Prefecture and Nagoya, Japan, from September 19 to October 4, 2026.
The Olympic Council of Asia (OCA) is currently assessing the sports program for the event, but logistical challenges related to venue availability and infrastructure are significant hurdles.
Logistical Challenges
The main issue arises from the need for more suitable cricket facilities in Japan. While there is an international cricket stadium located in Tochigi Prefecture, it is approximately three and a half hours away from Nagoya, where the Games will be held.
This distance poses a logistical nightmare for organizing matches and accommodating teams and fans. The OCA is considering converting a baseball stadium in Nagoya to host cricket matches, but this plan has yet to be finalized.
What is the OCA’s Position?
Despite these challenges, the OCA has expressed a strong desire to include cricket in the Games.
Acting president Randhir Singh highlighted the importance of cricket in promoting sports within Asia, especially with the sport’s return to the Olympics at Los Angeles 2028 after a long absence.
The OCA’s deputy director general, Vinod Kumar Tiwari, emphasized ongoing discussions with the Asian Cricket Council to explore viable solutions for including cricket in the 2026 lineup.
“The organizing committee is very keen on including that (cricket) in the 2026 Asian Games,” OCA deputy director general Vinod Kumar Tiwari told Reuters recently.
Future Considerations
The final decision regarding the inclusion of cricket will be made at an OCA General Assembly scheduled for April 2025.
This assembly will finalize the sports program for the Asian Games, and stakeholders are hopeful that a solution can be found to incorporate cricket into this prestigious multi-sport event.
Japan Cricket Association official Alan Curr, has also voiced support for including cricket, noting its potential legacy and impact on promoting the sport in Japan.
“It’s very important to get cricket into the 2026 Asian Games and put the game in front of people. For non-playing countries, cricket is seen as a minor sport,” Curr said.
