Cricket in Canada has experienced a steady rise in popularity over the past few decades, reflecting its increasing connections with cricket-loving nations. Cricket and many other sports are available for betting on the go at the app 1xBet, which you can get for free.
Although cricket is not traditionally one of Canada’s major sports like ice hockey or Canadian football, it has carved out a niche and continues to grow at both grassroots and competitive levels.
Historically, cricket was introduced to Canada during the 18th and 19th centuries by British settlers. Also, the country has one of the oldest cricket clubs in North America, the Toronto Cricket Club, founded in 1827. However, for much of the 20th century, cricket remained a niche sport with limited participation primarily among expatriates from Commonwealth countries.
The resurgence of cricket’s popularity in Canada is closely linked to immigration. Canada has welcomed a large number of immigrants from South Asia, the Caribbean, and other cricket-loving regions. People from many regions all over the world have brought their passion for cricket, with 5 examples being:
- India;
- Pakistan;
- Sri Lanka;
- Bangladesh;
- and the West Indies.
The 1xBet app also has tons of competitions from those regions too. All of them have helped establish local leagues, tournaments, and clubs. This demographic shift has been a major factor in cricket’s growing footprint.
A sport whose visibility is on the rise
In cities like Toronto, Vancouver, and Calgary, cricket is increasingly visible with many local leagues and facilities supporting the sport. Cricket tournaments played in Canada and everywhere else around the world are available for betting at the 1xBet platform.
The establishment of the Global T20 Canada league in 2018 marked a significant milestone, attracting international players and generating wider media attention. This franchise-based Twenty20 league helped raise the sport’s profile among Canadians who might not otherwise engage with cricket.
Canada’s national cricket team has also contributed to the sport’s popularity. The team has qualified for several ICC Cricket World Cups and T20 World Cups, which are featured at 1xBet, and have also helped bring cricket into the mainstream media spotlight during those periods. Although Canada is not a top-tier cricket nation, its presence on the international stage motivates local players and fans.
Efforts by Cricket Canada, the sport’s governing body, focus on youth development and grassroots programs, aiming to introduce cricket to schools and communities. Such initiatives are important for sustaining long-term interest and talent cultivation.