Indian Cricketers to Watch Out for in the 2028 Olympics

The International Olympic Committee (IOC) has announced the return of cricket to the Olympic Games after a 128-year hiatus. Cricket will make its comeback at the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, joining the prestigious event alongside baseball/softball, flag football, lacrosse, and squash. The T20 format, known for its rapid pace and thrilling matches, is set to captivate a global audience.

Cricket’s inclusion in the Olympics represents a monumental opportunity for the sport. It promises to introduce cricket to new fans and countries, potentially boosting its global presence and attracting more investment. This development is poised to enhance the sport’s popularity and foster new talent worldwide.

Below, we highlight five Indian cricketers to keep an eye on for the 2028 Olympics.

1. Yashasvi Jaiswal

Yashasvi Jaiswal has emerged as a standout talent in Indian cricket. At just 23 years old, he has already made a significant impact as an opening batsman. Jaiswal’s aggressive strokeplay and fearless approach make him a perfect fit for T20 cricket. His ability to take on bowlers from the very first ball can set the tone for India’s innings.

Jaiswal first gained attention with a double century in his Ranji Trophy debut, followed by impressive performances in the Indian Premier League (IPL). His knack for scoring quickly and consistently has made him a key player for India. In the fast-paced T20 format of the Olympics, Jaiswal’s attacking style will be a crucial asset.

2. Riyan Parag

Riyan Parag, an all-rounder from Assam, is known for his versatility. As a left-handed batsman, Parag can adapt to various roles in the batting order. Whether it’s anchoring the innings at No. 4, finishing matches at the death, or opening aggressively, Parag excels in all scenarios.

In addition to his batting prowess, Parag offers valuable contributions with his bowling. His ability to bowl both leg-spin and off-spin adds depth to India’s bowling attack. Parag’s all-around capabilities make him a vital player for the Olympics, capable of changing the course of a match with both bat and ball.

3. Ravi Bishnoi

Ravi Bishnoi is a rising star in the world of spin bowling. Hailing from Rajasthan, this young leg-spinner has impressed with his sharp googlies and deceptive flight. Bishnoi combines control and aggression, making him a formidable bowler in the T20 format.

Bishnoi’s ability to pick up wickets at crucial moments and his variations make him a valuable asset for the Indian team. The spin-friendly pitches often seen in T20 cricket play to his strengths. However, Bishnoi will need to gain more experience against top international batsmen to fully realize his potential. Consistency and further development of his variations will be key to his success.

4. Shubman Gill

Shubman Gill is an elegant opening batsman from Punjab, hailed as a future star of Indian cricket. Known for his classical technique and ability to play shots all around the wicket, Gill possesses a temperament beyond his years. His strength lies in rotating the strike, building partnerships, and accelerating when needed.

While Gill has made a name for himself in Test cricket, the T20 format requires a slightly different approach. Adapting to a more aggressive style will be essential for his success in the Olympics. Gill’s solid technique and adaptability make him a crucial player to watch.

5. Rinku Singh

Rinku Singh has made significant strides in domestic cricket and impressed in the 2023 Asian Games T20 squad. Despite strong competition from players like Ishan Kishan and Raj Angad Babu, Singh has shown promise with his consistent performances.

For Singh to secure a spot in the 2028 Olympic team, he needs to continue refining his batting and adapting to the demands of T20 cricket. His potential to play impactful innings could make him a valuable addition to the Indian squad.

Cricket’s Olympic Journey

The return of cricket to the Olympics is a historic moment for the sport. It offers a platform to showcase cricket to a global audience, potentially sparking interest in new regions. The T20 format, with its fast-paced and entertaining nature, is ideal for attracting viewers and keeping them engaged.

The inclusion in the Olympics is expected to lead to increased investment in cricketing infrastructure and development programs. Countries with emerging cricketing talent will have the opportunity to compete on the world stage, further enhancing the sport’s international profile.

Conclusion

As cricket makes its long-awaited return to the Olympics, these five Indian cricketers—Yashasvi Jaiswal, Riyan Parag, Ravi Bishnoi, Shubman Gill, and Rinku Singh—are poised to make a significant impact. Their talent, versatility, and dedication to the sport will be crucial in India’s quest for Olympic glory.

The 2028 Olympics represent a golden opportunity for cricket to expand its reach and captivate new audiences. With these rising stars leading the way, India is well-positioned to excel on this grand stage.