Former South African captain Graeme Smith has expressed his desire to see a Club World Cup in cricket, bringing together champion teams from major franchise leagues such as the IPL, SA20, and Big Bash. Speaking to Olympic.com, Smith, who currently serves as commissioner of South Africa’s SA20 league, said the idea could become reality in the near future as franchise cricket continues to expand globally.

Smith noted that the growing private ownership of franchise teams has created a strong foundation for such a global tournament. He believes a Club World Cup could add new excitement for fans and further boost the popularity of T20 cricket worldwide. According to him, franchise cricket has already built a new ecosystem that supports this vision.

Smith also discussed cricket’s inclusion in the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, where both men’s and women’s T20 events will feature six teams each. He said the chance to win an Olympic gold medal would inspire the next generation of cricketers with a new dream.