Why is cricket not part of the Commonwealth Games 2026? EXPLAINED
Cricket has been excluded from the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow due to financial constraints and logistical challenges. Organizers reduced the total number of sports from 19 to 10 to ensure the event remains sustainable following the withdrawal of the original host city.
Why it matters
The exclusion highlights the ongoing financial instability of hosting large-scale international multi-sport events.
NEW DELHI: The 2026 Commonwealth Games begin on Thursday in Glasgow, Scotland. However, fans will notice that several popular sports, including cricket. Apart from cricket, hockey, badminton and wrestling, are also missing from this year's programme.The number of sports has been reduced from 19 at the 2022 Birmingham Games to just 10 in Glasgow. The decision has also affected India's medal hopes, as many of the country's strongest events have been dropped.Why is cricket not part of Commonwealth Games 2026 in Glasgow?Cricket was dropped from the Glasgow Games mainly because of financial and logistical reasons.The 2026 Commonwealth Games were originally awarded to Victoria, Australia. However, the state government withdrew as host in 2023 because of rising costs.
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