Cricket finally gets a chance at the 2025 Southeast Asian Games in Thailand

Thailand has made significant progress in its cricketing infrastructure, leading to the sport's inclusion in the upcoming Southeast Asian Games. Scheduled from December 9 to 20, 2025, the event will take place across several cities in Thailand, including the capital, Bangkok. Initially fearful of cricket missing the event due to previous infrastructure challenges, the Asian Cricket Council stepped in to advocate for the sport’s inclusion, reveling in its growing popularity. The ACC's chair of development, Mahinda Vallipuram, emphasized cricket's role in inspiring communities and nurturing talent in the region. The 33rd SEA Games will feature both men's and women's cricket competitions, although the specific formats to be played have yet to be determined. Since its debut in 2017, cricket has had a sporadic presence at the SEA Games, being absent in 2019 and 2021 before its comeback in 2023 with eight events introduced. This progression illustrates a greater recognition of cricket within Southeast Asia, allowing nations to connect through a well-loved sport. Although the recent developments in Thailand’s cricket infrastructure have been positive, challenges remain. Thailand previously pulled out of co-hosting the Under-19 Women's World Cup, which will now take place entirely in Malaysia in early 2025. The Cricket Association of Thailand, along with the SEA Games Federation, continues to work on improving facilities and promoting cricket, particularly for women, who have been garnering attention within the sport. Currently ranked 13th in T20I, this enhancement and encouragement could lead to further advancements. Cricket’s reintegration into major sporting events contrasts sharply with the situation of the sport's Olympic representation, as logistical challenges jeopardize cricket’s inclusion in the upcoming 2026 Asian Games in Nagoya, Japan. While the Olympic Council of Asia actively seeks to include cricket, it remains uncertain if sufficient arrangements can be made in time. The looming Asian Games show how far cricket has come in Southeast Asia, paving the way for a potential return to Olympic glory with an expected reentry at the Los Angeles 2028 Games, marking a 128-year absence.