Cricket is making a comeback in the upcoming Asian Games 2022, scheduled in Hangzhou. Meanwhile the participation of the Indian team in the Asian Games later this year seems unlikely at the moment. BCCI is unlikely to field teams due to past commitments. It is very unfortunate that the most followed cricket country might not participate this year.
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Apart from their prior bilateral commitments, the men in blue will compete in the T20 cricket world cup 2022, which starts just after the Asian Games 2022. Participating in Asian Games increases the chances of each and every risk of injury.
BCCI secretary Jay Shah told Reuters, "As far as the Asian Games in Hangzhou is concerned, a final decision on whether to send both men's and women's teams will be taken later and based on our existing commitments."
Also, the women's team was going to participate in the Commonwealth Games in Birmingham, but it also seems quite unlikely. The team will tour England at that time and the dates coincide. The women in blue will play 3 ODIs and as many T20Is.
"The board firmly believes in honoring its bilateral commitments": Jay Shah
Participation of India in any tournament is definitely lucrative. Jay Shah spoke about BCCI's commitments and how honoring them is extremely crucial; that too in the post-Covid-19 time. Jay Shah said, "The BCCI has always stood by member boards and helped them in these difficult times. The board firmly believes in honoring its bilateral commitments. We are committed to our fans here in India and it is absolutely important that we safeguard our home season. The FTP that has been created needs to be adhered to."
BCCI's reluctance to participate in the Asian Games 2022 was also growing into an issue. ICC took a new decision after BCCI withdrew from the tournament. ICC decided to include cricket in the upcoming 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles. Jay Shah also confirmed the news. "The BCCI and ICC are on the same page on this and agree that the inclusion of cricket in the Olympics is good for the growth of the game."