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As the Los Angeles 2028 Olympics (LA28) approaches, organizers are actively searching for a suitable venue to host cricket matches. With cricket returning to the Olympics after more than 128 years, the LA28 team is considering an unconventional option: moving some matches to New York on the East Coast
Casey Wasserman, head of LA28, confirmed this exploration when he stated, “We’re still working through the specifics,” in response to inquiries about the potential shift. This decision aims to ensure that cricket fans in India can enjoy the games at more convenient hours.
New York as a Potential LA28 Venue?
The time difference between Los Angeles and India is significant—12 hours and 30 minutes. This means that a prime-time match starting at 8 PM in LA would be broadcast in India during early morning hours. In contrast, New York’s time zone offers a more favourable nine-and-a-half-hour difference. Matches scheduled to start around 10:30-11:00 AM in New York would allow Indian fans to watch them at approximately 8 PM.
This scheduling strategy mirrors the approach taken by the International Cricket Council (ICC) during the recent Twenty20 World Cup, which successfully catered to Indian audiences.
Venue Challenges and Controversies
While the time zone benefits are clear, finding an appropriate venue poses a significant challenge. The United States has limited cricket infrastructure, and recent World Cup matches in New York were held in a modular stadium that was dismantled shortly after the event. Other cities like Dallas and Fort Lauderdale have hosted cricket matches but lack permanent facilities.
“Unlike other new sports, cricket presents a unique venue challenge,” noted Sportico, highlighting LA28’s commitment to utilizing existing venues to keep costs down. However, suitable cricket venues are scarce both in California and across the country.
Special Consideration for Indian Cricket Fans in LA28
This is not the first time Olympic events have been held outside the host city. During the recent Paris Olympics, football matches took place across France. Similarly, Los Angeles spread its football matches across various states during its last hosting of the Olympics in 1984.
The Indian market is crucial for cricket’s inclusion in LA28. Organizers recognize that accommodating Indian fans is essential for maximizing viewership and engagement during the Games. Cricket’s return to the Olympics is seen as a significant opportunity to tap into this vast audience.
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