Cricket Faces Exclusion from 2026 Asian Games

Cricket's inclusion in the 2026 Asian Games is in jeopardy due to logistical challenges, despite support from the Olympic Council of Asia and Japan's organizing committee. Vinod Kumar Tiwari, OCA's deputy director general, emphasized the committee's desire to include cricket, but the difficulties of converting a baseball stadium into a cricket venue may hinder this goal. The Asian Cricket Council is currently negotiating to ensure cricket's presence at the Games, which could significantly impact the sport's growth in non-traditional markets. Meanwhile, the 2024-25 Mackay Cricket Association season is about to begin, showcasing key players poised to make an impact. In local competitions, New Farnley Cricket Club and Richmondshire Cricket Club are set to compete in the White Rose Trophy final, while Lytham CC celebrated Steven Croft's back-to-back centuries in the Liverpool and District Cricket Competition.