Cricket’s Olympic Revival Sparks Global Ambitions

With T20 cricket confirmed for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics after a 128-year absence, Ireland's rising star Amy Hunter has set her sights on becoming one of cricket's first Olympians of the modern era. The 19-year-old wicketkeeper-batter revealed her Olympic aspirations during an exclusive interview with BBC 5 Live's Sports Extra.

The Road to LA 2028

• Six-team tournaments for both men and women will feature at the Games
• European qualification likely between Ireland and Team GB
• 2026 T20 World Cup performance in England critical for Olympic seeding

Hunter emphasized the significance of January's Global Qualifier in Nepal, where Ireland will compete for one of four remaining spots in the 12-team 2026 T20 World Cup:

"Our recent success in European qualifiers gives us momentum. Nepal represents our chance to prove we belong among cricket's elite nations."

Overcoming World Cup Heartbreak

The Belfast-born player addressed Ireland's failure to qualify for the 2025 ODI World Cup:

"Losing close matches against Bangladesh, Pakistan, and West Indies still stings. Those experiences forged our determination for future tournaments."

Dual Focus: Olympics and T20 Dominance

• Ireland women have won 12 of last 18 T20 internationals
• Youth development program producing world-class talent
• Increased funding from Cricket Ireland for women's pathway

Hunter, who became the youngest international centurion (male or female) at 16, remains focused on immediate challenges:

"First we conquer Nepal, then we target Olympic history. Playing a World Cup in England and potentially the Olympics in LA – these are legacy-making opportunities."

Europe’s Cricket Landscape

Upcoming Milestones

• Oct 2025: European T20 Championship
• Jan 2026: Global Qualifier (Nepal)
• June 2026: T20 World Cup (England)
• July 2028: Olympic Cricket Tournament (LA)