How Virat Kohli is instrumental in cricket’s inclusion in 2028 Los Angeles Olympics | Cricket News

NEW DELHI: Star Indian batter Virat Kohli‘s iconic global status has such an aura that even International Olympic Committee (IOC) 141st session can’t do without his mention, during which the historic decision to include cricket in the Olympics was taken.
Kohli has such an impact globally that even non cricketing legends are aware of his stature as a legendary sportsman. With an impressive record of over 25,000 international runs, 77 centuries, and numerous memorable moments in his roles as a captain, cricketer, and a prominent figure in society, Kohli has earned a place in the hearts of sporting enthusiasts across the globe.

“My friend Virat Kohli has 340 million Social Media followers, making him the third most followed athlete – surpassing combined numbers of LeBron James (NBA basketball star), Tom Brady (American football icon) and Tiger Woods (American golf legend).

It is a win-win situation forLA28, IOC and cricket community as cricket will be showcased on a global stage, in order to grow it beyond traditional cricketing nations and give it access to untapped communities of athletes and fans,” Niccolo Campriani, the Sports Director of the Los Angeles 2028 Organising Committee, said during the IOC session.
“KOHLIFIED! The Face and the Brand, not just for RCB or Team India, but for Cricket as a sport too! Sports Director at #LA28 explains why it’s a win-win to have Cricket at the #Olympics. #PlayBold,” IPL franchise RCB posted on ‘X’ while acknowledging the words of Campriani.

Cricket is set to make a remarkable return to the Olympic Games, featuring in the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics after a hiatus of 128 years, as confirmed by the International Olympic Committee (IOC) on Monday.
The 2028 Olympic event will not only mark the return of cricket but will also introduce sports like baseball/softball, lacrosse, squash, and flag football. This decision follows the proposal put forth by the Organising Committee of the Olympic Games Los Angeles 2028, which was accepted during the 141st IOC session held in Mumbai.

Cricket had its sole appearance at the 1900 Paris Olympics, where Great Britain emerged victorious over France in the final match. Although absent from the Olympic stage for over a century, the sport is regularly featured in events such as the Commonwealth Games and the Asian Games.
Master blaster Sachin Tendulkar also welcomed the addition of Cricket to the Olympic roster and termed it as the dawn of a new era.
“After a wait of more than a century, our beloved sport is back on the Olympic stage at @LA28. This marks the dawn of a new era for cricket as it will be a golden opportunity to foster inclusivity and showcase new talent from emerging cricketing nations. A start of something truly special!”