The Canada Cricket Team, in a recent visit to the USA for a five-match T20 series, suffered a 4-0 defeat, with one match abandoned due to inclement weather. The newly elected president aims to implement changes in the team ahead of the T20 WC2024, scrutinizing both players and management based on strict performance evaluations.
Amjad Bajwa, is aiming to elevate Canadian cricket to new heights. He is also seeking cooperation from the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) ahead of the ICC T20 World Cup 2024.
T20WC2024 is not only a big boost for Canadian cricket in motivation and in attraction for fans but also ICC T20WC2024 will bring financial gains. In terms of utilizing funds from the T20 World Cup participation, Bajwa mentioned plans for training camps and development programs to enhance the skills of local players and expand cricket’s reach in Canada.
The opening match of T20 WC2024 will be played between Canada and USA on June 1 at Grand Prairie Cricket Stadium, Dallas. Canada will face Pakistan on June 11 at Nassau County International Stadium, New York. This is the same place where, before Pakistan, Canada will face Ireland on June 7 and face India on June 15. It is also an interesting fact that Like Amjad Bajwa is the first Pakistani leading Cricket Canada in management and Pakistani-born Saad Bin Zafar will lead the Canada Men’s Cricket team for the first time in history during ICC T20WC 2024. The Final of the ICC T20WC 2024 will be played on June 29 at Kensington Oval, Bridgetown, Barbados.
Addressing the infrastructural challenges facing cricket in the country, Bajwa emphasized the need for cooperation from provincial and federal governments to improve facilities and provide more grounds for players.
“We are meeting with regional and provincial governments to improve our infrastructure, gaining more grounds, and they are supportive of our efforts, especially after Canada’s qualification for the T20 World Cup,” he said.
Cricket Canada and ICC events
Canada, which has played in ICC ODI WCs 79, 2003, 2007, and 2011, will face Pakistan, India, USA, and Ireland in group stage matches during ICC T20WC 2024 from June 1 to June 29. Cricket Canada, an associate member of the International Cricket Council (ICC) since 1968, has never played bilateral series against ICC full members according to the competitive structure of the ICC.
Canada’s Cricket is set for a historic moment as Amjad Bajwa, the first Pakistani-Canadian president of Cricket Canada, was elected on April 14 during annual general meeting (AGM) of Cricket Canada in Toronto, takes charge with ambitious plans for the sport’s future. With the ICC T20 World Cup 2024 on the horizon, Bajwa sees an opportunity not just for financial gains but also to strengthen bilateral relations with cricketing powerhouses.
In conclusive comments, Bajwa reaffirmed his commitment to promoting cricket in Canada and creating opportunities for young players. With a focus on infrastructure, player development, and international relations, Bajwa’s presidency is poised to elevate Canadian cricket to new heights.
Cricket Canada’s Financial Situation
Cricket Canada is facing problems in finance management, as the annual grant of Cricket Canada from the National Sports Organization (NSO) is about 100 thousand dollars only. After getting the chance to play T20WC2024, Bajwa discussed recent sponsorship agreements, noting the support from a major bank. He highlighted the significance of these partnerships in providing financial stability for Cricket Canada and its players.
“The sponsorship deals have enabled us to provide contracts to players, ensuring they can focus on playing without financial worries,” he said.
