Cricket's future in Canada

An increasing number of Canadians claim heritage from parts of the world where cricket is the most important sport played, Dave Liverman writes on Canada Cricket Online, and therefore cricket's status as a sport in the country is growing. However, the speed of development, he says, will depend on whether Cricket Canada can be a unifying force and settle their disputes with other cricket bodies.

We can leave it there, with all the responsibility lying on Cricket Canada’s shoulders, but that will not work. Their role is to lead and support; the game will go nowhere without the interest and effort of those labouring in the trenches across the country. This summer we need to play cricket in the public eye- invite reporters, politicians, friends, and most importantly kids. Hold clinics, fun days to introduce anyone who is interested to the game. Develop recreational cricket where ability and wining are irrelevant. Start a women’s team, and develop a youth system. Move away from traditional club patterns built on ethnic origin – be inclusive, not exclusive. Get into your local schools. Cricket perhaps will never be a mainstream sport in Canada – but it can be a highly successful minor sport in every city in the country.