Need more nations to play cricket, then it can be part of Olympics: Virender Sehwag

Cricket is one of the most popular sports in the world. However, it still isn’t considered an Olympic sport. Former Indian cricketer Virender Sehwag stated that more countries need to embrace the game. He feels that global acceptance and wider reach across the world is the only way cricket would earn the status of an Olympic sport.

With Ireland and Zimbabwe recently attaining Test status, the full members of the International Cricket Council (ICC) increased from 10 to 12 members. However, the number is still quite low considering the ICC comprises a total of 105 members.

The chances of having cricket induced at the 2020 Olympics in Tokyo is unlikely. However, the world governing body has been pushing its case for cricket to be included in 2024. The 2024 Olympics is scheduled to take place in Paris. The last time cricket was included in Olympics was in 1900 when a game was played between the Great Britain and France.

Need more nations to play cricket

Terming it as the ICC’s decision, Sehwag remarked that more nations needed to play cricket. He felt that it was the only way cricket can be a part of the Olympics.

“I think it is ICC’s call. They need more nations to play cricket, then it can be part of Olympics. Twelve teams (full members) are not enough,” Sehwag was quoted as saying by the PTI.

The Indian opener was present on the launch of St. Moritz Ice Cricket on Wednesday. Players like Shoaib Akhtar, Graeme Smith, Daniel Vettori, Mahela Jayawardene and Mohammed Kaif are also expected to feature in the tournament. It is supposed to take place at St Mortiz on the 8th and 9th of February.

Sehwag mentioned that he would be glad if they were able to inspire people to pursue cricket as a passion in Switzerland.

“It will be great if we can inspire somebody to take up the game in Switzerland,” said Sehwag.