ECB backs India's 2036 Olympic bid

The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) has expressed support for India's bid to host the 2036 Olympic Games. ECB Chief Executive Richard Gould highlighted the 2030 Commonwealth Games in Ahmedabad as a critical rehearsal for the organizational and infrastructure requirements of an Olympic event.

India formally submitted a Letter of Intent to the International Olympic Committee (IOC) on October 1, 2024, with Ahmedabad nominated as the host city. The IOC selection process is currently in the Targeted Dialogue phase, with final contenders expected to be voted on in mid-2029.

Gould also emphasized the importance of cricket's inclusion in the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics and noted the significant global influence of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI). Additionally, the ECB noted the development of mixed disability cricket, which is being showcased through an ongoing series between India and England.