The International Cricket Council (ICC) has expressed its delight at the commencement of construction for the cricket stadium in Pomona, California, a crucial step as cricket readies for its Olympic comeback at LA28. The groundbreaking ceremony took place at the Fairplex Grounds in Pomona, with ICC Chairman Jay Shah emphasizing the significance of this event for the sport and its massive global fan base. Shah highlighted the importance of cricket’s expansion and its inclusion in the Olympic movement, stating that the venue in Pomona will play a central role during the Games and leave a lasting legacy for cricket in the USA.
ICC Chief Executive Sanjog Gupta, present at the ceremony, reiterated the organization’s commitment to broadening cricket’s reach worldwide, viewing its return to the Olympics as a pivotal move in that direction. Gupta emphasized the symbolic value of this moment for cricket’s re-entry into the Olympic Games and the positive impact it will have on the sport and the Olympic movement. He underlined the momentum behind cricket’s growth, citing recent ICC events that saw increased stadium attendance, digital engagement, and socio-economic influence, alongside efforts to enhance participation and expand key markets.
The ground-breaking event was attended by various dignitaries, including LA28 Vice President of Sports Niccolo Campriani, Pomona Mayor Tim Sandoval, Consul General of India in Los Angeles Dr. K. J. Srinivasa, Knight Riders Sports CEO Venky Mysore, and Fairplex President and CEO Walter Marquez. The inclusion of cricket in LA28 is viewed as a significant opportunity to diversify the sport’s reach beyond traditional boundaries and have a meaningful impact in the Americas. It aims to inspire youth to embrace cricket, broaden the fan base globally, and accelerate the sport’s international growth.
