BROWN: GT20 cricket in Canada an economic game-changer

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Canada is experiencing a cultural and economic sports revolution with the growth of cricket in every Canadian big city.

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Canada qualified for the ICC T20 World Cup for the first time and even beat Ireland. Cricket is on the rise in Canada and Canadian cricket is on the rise globally.

The fourth edition of the GT20 Canada tournament in Brampton is another opportunity to see world-class cricket and to showcase Brampton’s ability to host world-class sporting events and bring the excitement of professional cricket to Canada.

The GT20 Canada League, featuring six teams — the Surrey Jaguars, Bangla Tigers Mississauga, Vancouver Knights, Montreal Tigers, Toronto Nationals, and the Brampton Wolves — is a spectacular showcase of talent from around the world. Starting July 25, these teams will compete over three weeks in fiercely competitive games to become the ultimate champions of the Great White North.

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This isn’t just a Canadian affair — it’s a global event that attracts some of the biggest names in cricket. Legends of the game, alongside emerging stars, bring their skills to Canadian soil, creating an unparalleled spectacle for cricket fans.

Among the star players attending will be David Warner, an Australian and former World Cup champion. Pakistan captain Babar Azam, Pakistan vice-captain Mohammad Rizwan, and Australian Marcus Stoinis are just some of the other big names in cricket who will attend.

The tournament’s reach is staggering. With cricket having a global TV audience of 2.6 billion and nearly a billion social media impressions last season, GT20 Canada has cemented its place as one of the premier franchise T20 leagues worldwide. The last season alone garnered 180 million viewers, highlighting the growing interest and enthusiasm for cricket in Canada and beyond.

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Economically, GT20 Canada is a significant boon for both the local and national economies. The previous season saw the creation of 183 full-time equivalent jobs, generating significant economic impact: $31 million for Brampton, $35 million for Ontario, and $43 million for Canada. These figures underscore the league’s role in boosting local economies and providing employment opportunities, further solidifying its importance beyond the cricket field.

Culturally, the GT20 Canada League is introducing Canadians to the joys of cricket, a sport that, while new to many, offers a thrilling and engaging spectator experience. Much like how many find American or Canadian football (the tackle variety) complicated, but grow to love it once they learn the game, Canadians are discovering the excitement and strategic depth of cricket.

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The sport’s global popularity — cricket is the second most followed sport in the world — offers Canadians a new sport to watch and love, while also providing the chance to connect with a broader international community.

Exciting cricket plays, such as the “cover drive,” a graceful and powerful shot that sends the ball racing to the boundary, and the “yorker,” a delivery aimed at the batsman’s feet to prevent scoring, captivate audiences. Learning the intricacies of these plays can transform a casual observer into a passionate fan.

A pivotal figure in this cricket revolution is Saad bin Zafar, Canada’s national team captain from Brampton. His leadership and presence in the league inspire a new generation of Canadian cricketers and fans, demonstrating that Canada is not just a host but a competitor in the global cricket arena.

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Looking ahead, T20 cricket’s inclusion in the 2028 Olympics further elevates the significance of GT20 Canada. This development underscores the growing global recognition of the sport and its potential to captivate audiences worldwide, including here in Canada.

For North America’s estimated 25 million cricket fans, GT20 Canada is more than just a tournament; it’s a celebration of the sport they love. The league’s success is a testament to the growing popularity and acceptance of cricket in Canada, paving the way for future generations to embrace and enjoy the game.

Undoubtedly, professional cricket is a cultural and economic game-changer for Canada. It brings together the world’s best cricketers, boosts the local economy, and introduces a thrilling sport to a new audience. As Canada continues to host this prestigious tournament, the country solidifies its position as a vital player in the global cricket landscape, reaping the benefits of this dynamic and exciting sport. Let’s celebrate the GT20 Canada League and the bright future it heralds for cricket in Canada. Join us in experiencing the excitement firsthand by attending the matches or following the action online. The tournament runs from July 25 to Aug. 11 at TD Cricket Arena in Brampton, Ontario.

— Patrick Brown is the mayor of Brampton

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