Ottawa – September 27, 2025
Cricket took centre stage on Parliament Hill as MP Iqra Khalid welcomed parliamentarians, diplomats, and community leaders for Cricket Advocacy Day, an event designed to highlight the sport’s remarkable growth and the need for stronger national support.
The day brought together the National Cricket Delegation, led by Hassan Mirza of the Canadian College & University Cricket (CCUC), along with partners from the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association. They met with MPs and officials to discuss how cricket is engaging more than 300,000 players across Canada — and millions more who follow the sport.
MP Khalid emphasized that cricket represents more than recreation:
“Cricket embodies unity, inclusion, and opportunity. With so many young players across Canada, we must match their passion with the infrastructure and support they deserve.”
During the meetings, the delegation outlined key priorities to help cricket reach its full potential in Canada, including building a world-class international cricket stadium, securing dedicated federal funding, expanding the sport in schools and community leagues, and increasing women’s participation by 30% by 2028. They also highlighted the importance of supporting Canada’s pathway toward Olympic competition.
The day featured a lively “Pitch for Peace” match at the Rideau Hall Grounds, where a team of parliamentarians — including MP Khalid — faced Commonwealth diplomats. After both sides tied with 30 runs in five overs, the diplomats narrowly won in a Super Over, but the match succeeded in bringing people together and showcasing the sport’s excitement and accessibility.
Cricket is now one of Canada’s fastest-growing sports, especially in regions like the GTA, Surrey, Calgary, and across Ontario, B.C., and Alberta. Its rise reflects Canada’s diversity, strong youth engagement, and significant economic potential through tourism, events, and sport development.
As the MP for Mississauga–Erin Mills, MP Khalid continues to champion cricket as a bridge for community building, youth empowerment, and international connection. Events like Cricket Advocacy Day strengthen federal awareness of the sport’s momentum and help pave the way for new opportunities for young athletes across the country.