Bad News for fans; Australia to miss out on direct qualification for 2028 LA Olympics due to THIS reason- Reports

Australia have been eliminated from the T20 World Cup 2026 after losing to Sri Lanka and Zimbabwe.

In a surprising turnaround, Australia have been eliminated from the T20 World Cup 2026 after Zimbabwe’s game against Ireland was washed out in Colombo recently. Australia have managed only one win in three games, losing to Sri Lanka and a surprising loss to Zimbabwe.

The Kangaroos have only won one match against Ireland, which resulted in their exit from the T20 World Cup in an embarrassing fashion. They still have one game in hand, against Oman, but the outcome of the game will not change their fate in the tournament.

However, these results have also put Australia’s qualification for the 2028 LA Olympics in jeopardy. Australia‘s goal of competing at the 2028 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles may remain unfulfilled.

Australia entered the T20 World Cup 2026 comfortably ahead of New Zealand in the world rankings. However, their early elimination has created an opportunity for the Black Caps to catch up.

Australia at risk of losing out on direct qualification for 2028 LA Olympics – Reports

According to ICC rules, the teams that top the 2026 T20 World Cup will get direct qualification for the 2028 LA Olympics. However, the International Olympic Committee has not yet given its approval, though.

According to the reports of The Age, Australia’s early exit from the ongoing T20 World Cup will be a big advantage for New Zealand. If New Zealand advance to the semi-finals or beyond, it will undoubtedly cost Australia. The Kiwis have already advanced to the Super Eight.

The ICC can select the top team from each continent directly for the Olympics. Following the T20 World Cup, the ranking was used as a direct cut-off for qualification. However, the International Olympic Committee has yet to approve of this.

If the ICC’s ruling is upheld, New Zealand will have the opportunity to compete straight in the Olympics based on their rankings. On the other hand, Australia may have to face a qualification.

How many teams will participate in the 2028 Olympics?

The 2028 Olympics will include six men’s and six women’s cricket teams. According to this, Asia to India, Africa to South Africa, and Europe to England. There is no one in the ICC rankings ahead of these continent-specific teams. The United States could play a role as a host.

If Australia fail to qualify straight for the Olympics, it will suffer a significant setback. The Olympic rankings cut-off was recently agreed at the ICC level to be the end of this World Cup, with final IOC approval still pending.

For more updates, follow Khel Now Cricket on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Youtube; download the Khel Now Android App or IOS App and join our community on Whatsapp & Telegram.