The Canada Masters Cricket Association (CMCA) Seniors Over 60s team is fully prepared to represent Canada at the prestigious 6th Malta Seniors Cricket Festival, scheduled to take place from March 25 to April 2, 2026, at the iconic Marsa Sports Club.
The tournament is expected to be the largest seniors cricket festival in Europe, attracting over 200 participants from across the globe. Top veteran teams from the United Kingdom, Australia, and Canada will compete, including reigning champions Sussex, making the event a significant occasion on the international senior cricket calendar.
CMCA President Ranjit Chaudhri expressed confidence in the squad ahead of their departure, emphasizing the deeper meaning behind the competition. “This tournament is not just about competition—it is about pride, experience, and representing Canada with dignity,” he said.
The team’s participation was formally announced during a well-attended Iftar dinner hosted by CMCA, where members of the cricketing community, business leaders, and civic officials gathered in a strong show of support. The evening highlighted the growing popularity of cricket across Canadian cities and underscored the role of sport in fostering unity and cultural connection.
CMCA Director Faisal Moledina used the occasion to call for greater institutional support for cricket in Canada. He stressed that sustained investment in both grassroots and elite-level development is essential for the sport’s long-term growth.
Canadian national team captain Saad Bin Zafar highlighted the country’s untapped potential in cricket despite climatic challenges. He noted that with improved infrastructure, including international-standard facilities and more global exposure, Canada could emerge as a competitive force on the world stage.
Echoing this vision, Harkirat Singh confirmed that a new high-quality cricket ground is currently under development in Brampton. The facility aims to meet international standards and serve as a future hub for major tournaments.
City Councillor Gurpartap Singh Toor highlighted the broader social impact of the team’s participation. “When senior athletes represent Canada abroad, it sends a powerful message that sport has no age limit and that healthy, active lifestyles are for everyone,” he said.
As the CMCA squad prepares to compete in Malta, their journey symbolizes more than just participation in a tournament. It reflects the resilience and passion of athletes who continue to excel beyond their prime, while also showcasing the steady rise of cricket within Canada’s diverse sporting landscape.
Also addressing the gathering were CMCA Vice President Rohan Jayasekera and TDCA League Vice President Farhan Khan. The event was attended by several prominent business figures, including Yousuf German, Dil Nawaz Khan Rumi, Asad Khan, Murtaza Joiya, Faraz Qureshi, Iftikhar Khan, Tariq Parvez, and Vijay Kumar.
With preparations complete and community support behind them, the CMCA Over-60s team now looks ahead to Malta, ready to represent Canada with pride on the international stage.
