ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT
Cricket West Indies, NCL Canada mull GT20 partnership
The proposed framework includes Cricket West Indies taking an ownership stake in the Global T20 tournament
-
1759953093.png)
Staff Reporter - Wed, 15, Apr 2026
- 16:22 EDT
- 17
Representative Image / Logo
Cricket West Indies (CWI) and NCL Canada Inc. are advancing plans to formalize a strategic partnership aimed at strengthening the Global T20 league and accelerating cricket’s growth across North America and the Caribbean.
The proposed framework includes Cricket West Indies taking an ownership stake in the Global T20 tournament, along with the potential acquisition of a franchise. Discussions also cover broader commercial collaborations to expand the sport’s reach in emerging markets, particularly in Canada.
Also Read: "IPL changed everything’: Graeme Smith on revolution brought by franchise cricket
A key component of the partnership is the proposed integration of a high-performance center in Antigua, which would provide Canadian players access to elite training, development pathways, and competitive opportunities within the Global T20 ecosystem.
Arun Agarwal, chairman of NCL GT20 Canada, highlighted the significance of the move in a market shaped by strong immigrant participation and growing youth interest in cricket.
“Cricket’s growth in North America is no longer theoretical, it’s happening. By creating opportunities for enhanced competition, opening access to high-performance training in the Caribbean, and building a true development pipeline, we are giving young players something that hasn’t existed here before, a clear, credible path from learning the game to playing it professionally. That’s how you build a sport that lasts,” he said.
The partnership could also enable Canadian teams to participate in future Cricket West Indies tournaments, increasing cross-regional competition and visibility for players.
CWI president Kishore Shallow described the discussions as a significant step for both regions.
Also Read: Arvinder Singh Khosa is the new President of Cricket Canada
“This is a pivotal and forward-looking moment for West Indies and Canadian cricket. As the only ICC Full Member nation in the hemisphere, this collaboration promises tremendous mutual potential. For Cricket Canada, it could very well be a defining moment for their cricket development. Equally important, Canada represents to CWI the kind of market that could have a significant impact on our commercial growth,” he said.
NCL GT20 Commissioner Brijesh Patel added that partnerships like this are critical to building a sustainable cricket ecosystem in North America.
"The future of cricket in North America runs through partnerships like this one. When you connect Canadian talent with West Indies expertise and enhance the competitive opportunities, you're not just growing a league, you're building a genuine development pipeline. That's what turns a growth story into a lasting one."
Both organizations said discussions are ongoing, with further updates expected as the partnership framework is finalized.
Discover more at New India Abroad.
Related
ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT
E Paper
Video
Comments
Start the conversation
Become a member of New India Abroad to start commenting.
Sign Up Now
Already have an account? Login