LA 2028 Olympics cricket stadium construction begins in Pomona

Construction of a dedicated cricket stadium for the LA 2028 Olympics has officially begun in Pomona, Los Angeles County, California, marking a significant step in the sport’s return to the stage after 128 years.

A ground-breaking ceremony was held on the Fairplex Grounds in Pomona on Wednesday. International Cricket Council (ICC) chairman Jay Shah termed it as a “major milestone” for the game.

“These are very exciting times for the game of cricket as it makes giant strides in establishing itself as a global sport,” Jay Shah said. “Our focus has been on expanding the footprint of cricket and being part of the Olympic movement is something that brings both pride and dreams with it.

“We’re confident this venue will take centre-stage during the Games and leave a legacy for cricket in the USA.”

Cricket’s inclusion in the LA 2028 Olympics is expected to drive the sport’s expansion beyond traditional strongholds, opening new pathways for growth in the Americas while inspiring a younger, more diverse global fan base.

The sport’s only previous Olympic appearance came at Paris 1900, where just two sides - Great Britain and France - contested a one-off two-day 12-a-side match, later recognised as an unofficial Test. Great Britain claimed the gold medal.

At the LA 2028 Olympics, the sport will return in a modern format, featuring separate T20 International tournaments for men and women, each awarding gold, silver and bronze medals.

Six teams will compete in each tournament, with 90 athlete quotas allocated per gender - allowing every side to field a 15-member squad.

All matches are set to be played at a temporary, purpose-built venue at the Fairgrounds in Pomona, located around 50 kilometres from Los Angeles, with matches scheduled to run from July 12 to 29.

Ahead of the Olympics, the Fairplex Grounds will also host three matches of the Major League Cricket (MLC), featuring the Los Angeles Knight Riders from July 1 to 5.

The MLC is the premier professional Twenty20 International league in the USA.

Click here to read article