Cricket West Indies Advocates for Fair Olympic Access for Caribbean Teams

Cricket West Indies (CWI) is advocating for fair access for Caribbean nations to compete in cricket at the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. With cricket returning to the Olympic Games after a long absence, CWI has raised concerns regarding the current eligibility criteria that may exclude their teams. They have proposed two pathways for inclusion and emphasized the importance of recognizing the unique structure of West Indies cricket. CWI's leadership highlights the Caribbean's rich Olympic legacy and calls for a qualification system that ensures representation and fairness for their athletes. This initiative reflects a broader vision for inclusion on a prestigious global stage.

By Narendra Chaudhary May 16, 2025, 12:30 IST

CWI Calls for Inclusion in 2028 Olympics

Cricket West Indies (CWI) has formally requested the International Cricket Council (ICC) to guarantee that Caribbean nations have equitable opportunities to compete in cricket during the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.

As cricket returns to the Olympic stage after over a century, CWI has expressed concerns that the current eligibility framework might prevent both the men's and women's teams from the West Indies from participating, despite their commendable performances on the field.

Proposed Pathways for Inclusion

The governing body for cricket in the region has submitted a detailed proposal to the ICC, outlining two possible pathways for inclusion. These options include hosting an internal qualifying tournament among eligible Caribbean nations or establishing a more inclusive qualification system that recognizes the Olympic identities of each member country within the West Indies framework.

A Call for Fairness

“All we are asking is that our individual nations’ exceptional Olympic legacy be considered in the conversation. The structure of West Indies cricket is unique—men and women teams representing 15 individual nations and territories, each with its own Olympic identity. We cannot let this once-in-a-generation opportunity for national development pass without creating a way for our countries to participate,” said Chris Dehring, CEO of CWI.

In an official statement, CWI emphasized the Caribbean's significant contributions to Olympic history and insisted that it should not be overlooked now that cricket is being included in the Games. They referenced the Olympic Charter's commitment to universality and equitable access, urging both the ICC and the International Olympic Committee (IOC) to uphold these principles.

Inspiring Future Generations

“The Caribbean has always punched above its weight at the Olympics, inspiring the world with our athletic brilliance. Cricket’s return to the Games in 2028 must not exclude our young cricketers from the same dream that has inspired our athletes," said CWI President Dr. Kishore Shallow.

Dehring reiterated this sentiment, emphasizing that the inclusion of cricket should not come at the expense of those who have contributed to the sport's global growth.

A Vision for Inclusion

“Our nations have proudly flown their individual flags atop Olympic podiums as perennial gold medalists. Now, with cricket’s inclusion, we must ensure that our cricketers are not shut out of history," he added.

CWI is committed to collaborating with the ICC and other relevant stakeholders to create a qualification system that aligns with the values of the Olympic movement while respecting the unique structure of Caribbean cricket.

The organization's proposal not only reflects a desire to compete but also embodies a broader vision for inclusion, fairness, and representation on one of the world's most esteemed sporting platforms.