Localization of Cricket in China: Rationale, Current Landscape, and Strategic Pathways

Following the International Olympic Committee’s announcement that cricket will be included in the 2028 Olympic Games, the sport has garnered increased global attention, creating a valuable opportunity for cricket’s growth in China. Leveraging the backdrop of cricket’s Olympic inclusion, this study utilizes literature analysis and expert interviews to investigate the rationale, current status, challenges, and strategic pathways for localizing cricket in China. The findings indicate that China’s cricket development faces several challenges, including the talent cultivation system, infrastructure investment, market development, policy support, and international collaboration. To capitalize on the opportunities arising from cricket’s Olympic status, it is essential to create a comprehensive strategy that promotes the sport’s localization through enhancing cultural recognition, reforming the educational framework, improving infrastructure and commercialization efforts, and bolstering policy support and international partnerships.