At a special general meeting convened by B.C. Supreme Court Judge David Crerar in April, Arvinder Khosa was elected president of Cricket Canada, marking a pivotal turn for the organization. The election, held over the weekend, saw Khosa secure 18 out of 25 votes, with his entire committee also receiving strong endorsement. This change comes after three years of turmoil that threatened to dismantle the sport's reputation in Canada.
Background of Crisis
The previous leadership, led by Amjad Bajwa and described by Judge Crerar as "ruled by egos," was stripped of power following allegations of mismanagement, corruption, and internal dysfunction. Crerar's intervention was crucial in salvaging the organization from collapse.
New Leadership and Challenges
Khosa's committee includes Ranjit Chaudhri as vice-president, Paramjit Shahi as secretary, and directors Amit Joshi, Hassan Mirza, Subrata Mandal, and Riaz Dawood. For the first time, players will have representation through Sonali Vig for women and Manzoor Chaudhary for men. Bhavjit Jauhar has been appointed interim chief operational officer for three months.
However, Khosa faces two major hurdles. The International Cricket Council (ICC) has placed Cricket Canada on a "restricted funding program," the details of which are pending. Additionally, the organization is burdened with approximately $500,000 in legal fees incurred by the previous committee.
On-Field Preparations
Khosa has moved swiftly by hiring Monty Desai from India as interim coach. Desai faces a monumental task in rebuilding a national squad demoralized by undue interference from former board members in team selection. Canada is set to play crucial ICC World Cricket League qualification matches in June against the U.S. and Netherlands.
Canada currently sits sixth in the standings, behind the U.S., Scotland, Oman, Netherlands, and Namibia. To qualify for the 2027 World Cup (50 overs) and retain ODI status, Canada must finish in the top four. With 12 fixtures remaining, at least six wins are necessary to avoid dropping to associate status, which would limit international competition.
Financial and Logistical Issues
Khosa has prioritized player compensation, aiming to increase the current $3,000 monthly salary by $2,000 or more, contingent on reviving the GT20 League. The league was cancelled last year but may return, pending a court decision on its management. Meanwhile, the U.S.-based National Cricket League has announced involvement in the tournament, and Bombay Sports has sued Cricket Canada over the league's operation.
Preparation has been hampered by wet weather in Ontario, forcing the squad to consider relocating to British Columbia for practice. Desai and his team, led by all-rounder Saad Bin Zafar, will need to adapt quickly to these challenges.
