Hockey is set to return to the Commonwealth Games in 2030 after being named one of two core sports for the host nation, according to reports.
The decision — first reported by the The Times of India — designates both hockey and cricket as mandatory inclusions in the 2030 Games in Ahmedabad.
Men’s cricket is likely to make a comeback after 32 years, albeit in the T20 format — its last appearance was at the 1998 Kuala Lumpur Games.
Hockey’s reinstatement would end uncertainty over its fate following its exclusion from the scaled-back 2026 Games, and responds to a strong push by Indian organisers to restore team sports for the 2030 host edition.
Hockey first became a Commonwealth sport in 1998.
The full 2030 programme will include 15–17 sports; final confirmation of all disciplines is expected by April 2026.
Archery, badminton, 3×3 basketball and 3×3 wheelchair basketball, beach volleyball, T20 cricket, cycling, diving, judo, rhythmic gymnastics, rugby sevens, shooting, squash, triathlon and para triathlon and wrestling are the sports also being considered.
Ahmedabad pledged to “lay the foundation” for the next 100 years of the Commonwealth Games after the Indian city was named as host of the 2030 Centenary Games last week.
