In a dramatic last-minute decision, Cricket Canada has changed captains for the upcoming ICC Men's T20 World Cup, sparking questions and potential disruption within the national squad just weeks before the global tournament.
A Sudden Leadership Swap
The Canadian cricket team received a spirited send-off from fans at Brampton's City Hall in mid-January, with Nicholas Kirton introduced as the team's skipper for the journey to Sri Lanka for pre-tournament preparation. However, upon arrival in Asia, the governing body dropped a bombshell: Dilpreet Singh Bajwa, a 22-year-old batting talent, would lead the side instead.
Cricket Canada chairman Amjad Bajwa (no relation to the new captain) explained the late switch, stating the final decision on leadership was made after the team's departure. "At the time we hadn't decided on who would lead Canada at the world championship," Bajwa said. "But Cricket Canada then made a decision that it would be Dilpreet." The young batter reportedly beat out experienced players like Saad Bin Zafar, Harsh Thacker, and Shreyas Movva for the role.
New Captain Makes Immediate Impact
The newly appointed captain celebrated his promotion in style, blasting an unbeaten 102 runs off just 51 balls in a warm-up match against a Sri Lanka emerging players' squad. His innings powered Canada to an 88-run victory. He was well-supported by Yuvraaj Samra's 84 off 42 balls as the team posted a formidable 241 for two.
Dilpreet Bajwa is no stranger to record-breaking performances. In 2024, he became the first Canadian cricketer to score a century in the Global T20 Canada tournament, with a 100 not out off 55 balls.
Potential for Rift and Logistical Headaches
The timing of the decision has raised eyebrows, as it could create internal tension within the squad. Kirton had expressed confidence in an exclusive interview before the trip, stating the team's goal was to "advance to the second round of the competition." The chairman acknowledged the need for damage control, expecting new skipper Bajwa and coach Ingleton Liburd to speak with players individually to ensure unity.
Beyond the captaincy controversy, Canada faces another significant hurdle: visa issues with India, one of the tournament's co-hosts. Fast bowler Mohammad Kamal has reportedly had his visa application rejected by Indian authorities. While all-rounder Saad Bin Zafar's application was approved, chairman Amjad Bajwa's own visa is still pending. This mirrors issues for several players from other nations born in Pakistan, including U.S. fast bowler Ali Khan.
Canada's Group Stage schedule for the T20 World Cup is as follows:
- February 9: vs. South Africa in Ahmedabad
- February 13: vs. United Arab Emirates in Delhi
- February 17: vs. New Zealand in Chennai
- February 19: vs. Afghanistan in Chennai
The team's management, including manager Praimp Persaud, now has the dual challenge of unifying the squad under its young, new leader and navigating complex diplomatic and logistical barriers to ensure a full-strength team takes the field next month.
