For many people in immigrant and diaspora communities, cricket has always been more than a game. It carries memory, migration and meaning. In my childhood in Moratuwa, Sri Lanka, cricket was woven into everyday life – played under coconut trees, watched from the sidelines, shared among neighbours and friends. When life became difficult, particularly after the loss of my father when I was young, cricket offered rhythm and escape, creating space for joy and belonging when words were scarce.

That same sense of connection followed me to Canada. Like many newcomers, I arrived without an established network, and it was through cricket – attending a local match shortly after arriving – that friendships began to form. Over time, those informal gatherings evolved into deeper community ties, shaped not just by sport, but by shared values of welcome, participation and care.

In recent years, cricket in Canada has been stepping into public view in new and unexpected ways. I recently came across a LinkedIn post noting that, ahead of the Men’s T20 World Cup, billboards in Canadian cities posed a simple but disarming question: “Canada has a cricket team?” Canada participated in the 2024 T20 World Cup and has qualified again for the 2026 tournament. Cricket has begun to enter the national conversation in a way that feels different from the past. Beyond Canada, the game itself continues to evolve – the T20 World Cup now held every two years, the traditional 50-over World Cup on its four-year cycle, and the sport set to return to the Olympic Games in Los Angeles in 2028 for the first time since 1900. Together, these moments suggest not a sport newly arrived, but one re-emerging – in Canada and around the world – with renewed visibility and shared purpose.

This renewed attention in Canada rests on decades of grassroots work by many community groups, schools, volunteers and local leaders. My involvement through the Ontario Schools Cricket Association (OSCA) has been one small part of a much wider ecosystem creating pathways for young people to encounter the game. Across Ontario, cricket has been introduced in classrooms and gymnasiums not as an elite pursuit, but as an inclusive, affordable opportunity for students to be active, to belong and to thrive. This work continues even as cricket remains outside formal school-sport recognition, requiring patience, collaboration and trust.

When cricket enters schools where it has long been absent, it does so not simply as a sport, but as a way of reaching students who may feel unseen by traditional athletic pathways. The emphasis has been on participation, wellbeing and confidence rather than competition or prestige. Those involved in education often remind us that lasting impact comes not from one-off events, but from building structures that allow young people to experience belonging year after year.

Recently, OSCA took an important step beyond urban school settings. In June, our coaches visited Shawanosowe School and Wiikwemikong Junior School on Manitoulin Island – OSCA’s first foray into First Nations school communities. These visits were grounded in listening and learning, offering introductory cricket experiences while beginning conversations about how sport can support wellbeing, physical literacy and community connection. This work is only a beginning, with a shared commitment to build on these relationships thoughtfully and respectfully.

Before the pandemic, programs such as Cricket Across the Pond, run through CIMA Canada, my professional association, provided education-focused opportunities for young people from diverse communities to experience the history and spirit of the game at Lord’s Cricket Ground in London, England. While the program concluded during the Covid pandemic, it demonstrated how sport and education could be aligned in meaningful ways, and it brought Toronto international recognition through a unique youth initiative. Building on those lessons, OSCA is now exploring future sport scholarships that align athletic participation with educational pathways.

These same values are reflected in the Anglican Church Cricket Festival, held in the Diocese of Toronto each summer. The festival is not simply about cricket; it is about gathering and hospitality. It brings together parishioners from across the GTHA and welcomes the wider community into a shared space where food, conversation and play matter as much as runs or wickets. Women and men, children and elders, seasoned players and enthusiastic beginners, all find room to participate.

The next Anglican Church Cricket Festival is scheduled for July 11 in Brampton, and it continues this tradition of openness and welcome. Cricket naturally lends itself to this spirit. It is a game that allows time – to talk, to wait, to watch, to take turns. Everyone has a role, whether playing on the field or standing at the boundary. It reminds us that contribution takes many forms, and that belonging does not depend on performance alone.

As I continue my stay in Sri Lanka, watching the Sri Lanka–England series unfold and knowing that Canada’s team will soon leave here for India ahead of the Men’s T20 World Cup, I am reminded that cricket’s greatest gift is not found on scorecards or in stadiums. It is found in the spaces it creates – between neighbours, across cultures and within communities – where people gather, connect and discover one another anew.

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Bishop Kevin Robertson opened the festival with warm remarks and a prayer of thanksgiving. His presence set a tone of gratitude and celebration for what has become a cherished tradition of faith and fellowship.

Under a hot summer sky, players and spectators alike found refreshment not just in water and shade but in the camaraderie and energy that has defined the festival since its modest beginnings in 2016.

Westney Heights Baptist Church in Ajax, captained by Anand Natesan, successfully defended its title, defeating first-time entrants St. Thomas Orthodox Church, Toronto, in a thrilling final.

“We came as a new team, not knowing what to expect, but what we found was encouragement, unity and inspiration,” said Abhilash Pereira, captain of St. Thomas Orthodox. “Making it to the final was special. But more than that, we felt truly welcomed into a community that lives its faith through joy and sport.”

This year’s festival marked a milestone not just in longevity but in impact. For the first time, two Youth Spirit of Cricket Medals were awarded by the Ontario Schools Cricket Association, recognizing the positive energy and the spirit of cricket embodied by young players.

Irene Fadel of St. Thomas à Becket, Erin Mills South, received the girls’ medal, and Sean John of St. Thomas Orthodox Church, Toronto, was awarded in the boys’ category. Both were celebrated for their enthusiasm, teamwork and gracious attitude – hallmarks of the festival’s ethos.

The afternoon was further elevated by the presence of MPP Charmaine Williams, Ontario’s associate minister of women’s social and economic opportunity, who had just returned from an interprovincial conference yet still made time to attend the festival. A longtime supporter and parishioner of St. Joseph of Nazareth, Bramalea, Ms. Williams shared heartfelt words:

“This festival isn’t just about cricket – it’s about community, belonging and the powerful role faith plays in connecting people. Every year, I see lives touched by this event. It’s a reminder that joy and purpose can live side by side on the field.”

Teams represented St. Jude, Bramalea North, Holy Family, Heart Lake, St. Joseph of Nazareth, St. Thomas à Becket, St. Thomas Orthodox Church, CSI Toronto, St. Bede, Scarborough, Westney Baptist Church, St. James the Apostle, and the rebranded Bishop’s XI, formerly Clergy XI, led by Rev. Canon Dr. Stephen Fields.

Legendary Toronto cricket commentator Amaresh Rajaratnam brought the matches to life with his ball-by-ball narration, supported by expert scoring from Lucy Fields.

As the sun set on this special anniversary, the message was clear: the ACCF is more than a tournament – it’s a joyful witness to the Church’s power to unite through play, prayer and presence.

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Rooted in the idea that community-building can happen on and off the pitch, ACCF offers a unique space where all are welcome, seasoned players, first-timers, children, seniors and curious spectators alike. The festival uses modified rules to ensure inclusive participation, embodying the gospel message of welcome, inclusion and joy.

More than a game, the ACCF is a space for the working of the Holy Spirit through cricket in the lives of young and old, churched and unchurched, skilled cricketers and enthusiastic amateurs alike.

“Cricket, for many of us, is more than a game – it’s a language of community,” says Anand Natesan, captain of last year’s winning team from Westney Heights Baptist Church. “The ACCF feels like worship in motion. Every cheer and high-five becomes an act of praise. It reminds us that sport can be a joyful reflection of faith – God’s love in action.”

This year’s festival promises to be more exciting than ever, with the possibility of welcoming new teams to the lineup. Back for more friendly rivalry are our beloved regulars: Church of South India, Toronto; Holy Family, Heart Lake; St. Bede; St. James the Apostle, Brampton; St. Joseph of Nazareth, Bramalea; St. Jude, Bramalea North; and St. Thomas à Becket, Erin Mills South. And we can’t forget the ever-spirited Clergy & Friends XI, led by the Rev. Canon Dr. Stephen Fields. Expect a day full of matches, music, food and plenty of laughs!

As host city, Brampton continues to play a vital role in fostering this celebration of sport and spirit. The Rev. Jeff Stone, a longtime supporter and key inspiration behind the cricket team from St. Jude’s, says, “The ACCF isn’t just about cricket. It’s about witnessing the community of God’s good-news bearers, gathering in joy to enjoy a little fun competition. That’s the beauty of this festival – it opens hearts while opening innings.”

Join the celebration – your presence matters!

To register or volunteer for the ACCF, contact Ranil Mendis, ODT at rmendis1@gmail.com.

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This festival is not just about runs and wickets; it is about breaking barriers, building relationships and strengthening bonds among diverse congregations in the GTA. This year’s event promises to be extra special, with an official ceremony from 9 a.m. to 10 a.m., where church leaders, local dignitaries and special guests will reflect on the festival’s growth.

The inaugural event in 2016 was a simple yet significant match between St. Thomas à Becket, Erin Mills South and St. Peter, Erindale. Inspired by the overwhelming enthusiasm, the festival expanded rapidly, welcoming new teams from Anglican parishes across the GTA.

Over the years, ACCF has garnered recognition from church and government leaders alike, with increasing participation and community engagement. The ninth edition in 2024 saw over 150 participants and nine teams, including St. James the Apostle, Brampton; St. Bede, Toronto; St. Joseph of Nazareth, Bramalea; St. Jude, Bramalea North; St. Thomas à Becket, Erin Mills South; Holy Family, Heart Lake, Brampton; Westney Heights Baptist Church; CSI Church, Toronto; and the “Clergy & Friends” cricket team led by the Rev. Canon Dr. Stephen Fields. Esteemed guests such as Bishop Andrew Asbil, Bishop Kevin Robertson, Brampton Mayor Patrick Brown and Charmaine Williams, Ontario’s associate minister of Women’s Social and Economic Opportunity (and a parishioner of St. Joseph of Nazareth), were also in attendance, highlighting the festival’s growing significance.

The ACCF’s 10th anniversary is a testament to the power of sport in building Christian fellowship. Whether you’re a seasoned cricketer, a first-time player or a spectator cheering from the sidelines, we invite you to be part of this special celebration. Gather your parish team, bring your family and friends and join us for a day filled with cricket, camaraderie and Christ-centered joy.

For more details or to get involved, contact Ranil Mendis, ODT, at rmendis1@gmail.com.

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This is an invitation to join a celebration that goes beyond the confines of sport, community and diversity. The organizers extend this invitation not only to seasoned cricket enthusiasts but also to those who are new to the game, encouraging them to explore, learn, try and actively participate in the world’s second most popular game after soccer. The ACCF provides opportunities for Anglicans in the GTA to get to know each other and build relationships, and enjoy food, fun and Christian fellowship.

Last year’s festival was a resounding success. Drawing more than 80 parishioners and friends from six churches in the diocese, the event was a testament to the unifying power of cricket. The Rev. Canon Dr. Stephen Fields, sub-dean and vicar of St. James Cathedral, MPP Charmaine Williams, a parishioner of St. Joseph of Nazareth, and the Rev. Ginnie Wong, interim priest-in-charge of Holy Trinity, Thornhill, inaugurated the tournament with enthusiasm and spirit. The round-robin games culminated in an entertaining final match with St. Bede, Scarborough claiming the title of tournament champion.

The event showcased the talents of all involved, each with varying levels of knowledge and understanding of the game. Ms. Williams, recognizing the significance of the event, presented the organizers with a special award on behalf of the Ontario government. Afterwards, Canon Fields shared his delight as he praised the ACCF for its lively atmosphere, enjoyable activities and sense of community. As a passionate cricket enthusiast hailing from Barbados, he lived up to expectations, by displaying his cricket skills with the distinctive flair of West Indian cricket.

The organizers express their appreciation to all who supported last year’s festival. A special acknowledgment is extended to the Ontario Schools Cricket Association for its ongoing support of the festival, providing equipment and setup materials for the event.

The invitation for this year’s festival on July 13 – a Saturday – extends to all parishes. We urge you to consider fielding a cricket team or encourage individual players to join a combined church cricket team representing your church. The festival will be held from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Creditview Sandalwood Sports Complex, 10530 Creditview Rd., Brampton.

f you are interested in playing as an individual, as a church team or simply helping out as a volunteer, email Mr. Mendis at rmendis1@gmail.com.

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If the popularity of cricket in Canada during confederation reflected the British roots of the general populace at the time, cricket’s new popularity comes from changing demographics and how it shapes local recreation. It is with that in mind that two local Anglican churches in Mississauga planned to capitalize on the resurgence of cricket and organized a friendly cricket encounter in 2016. The event evolved over the next three years, attracting 10 churches in the Greater Toronto Area to what is now known as the Anglican Church Cricket Festival (ACCF).

The organizers regrouped in late 2021 and planned to recover and rebuild the great network of churches established through the ACCF, and held the first post-pandemic event last year. Despite the uncertainties around the pandemic, the organizers were pleasantly surprised to see over 70 parishioners, family and friends from five GTA churches attend the event on a glorious summer day. The Rev. David Matthews, incumbent of St. Thomas à Becket, welcomed the guests and officially opened the event with MPP Charmaine Williams, who is a parishioner of St. Joseph of Nazareth in Brampton.  Addressing the gathering, Ms. Williams spoke about her love and passion for the mission of God and emphasized the importance of community-engagement events like the ACCF to share God’s love with the Church and people in the wider community.

All plans are now in place for another great ACCF event on July 15. While they may not have a repeat of the historic 1889 cricket match between the cathedral and St. Matthias, organizers are excited to welcome the Rev. Canon Dr. Stephen Fields, sub-dean and vicar of the cathedral and a avid cricket fan who has confirmed his attendance at this year’s event. Come, join your fellow Anglicans for a day of cricket, lovely cricket!

For more information on the cricket festival and to register your church to play, contact Ranil Mendis, ODT, at rmendis1@gmail.com.

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This event evolved from a friendly cricket encounter in 2016 between St. Thomas a Becket, Erin Mills South and St. Peter, Erindale. By 2019 the ACCF expanded into a great community engagement event for participating churches. However, the pandemic-related disruptions in 2020 negated the great momentum and the network of local churches that was built over five years. A modified version of the ACCF returned in June 2022 after three years. Despite the uncertainties around the pandemic, we were pleasantly surprised to see more than 70 parishioners, family and friends from five GTA churches attending the event on a glorious summer day last year. Charmaine Williams, MPP for Brampton Centre and a parishioner of St. Joseph of Nazareth, Bramalea, was among the attendees. Addressing the gathering, Ms. Williams spoke about her love and passion for the mission of God and emphasized the importance of community engagement events like the ACCF to share God’s love with the church and in the community.

This year, the ACCF will once again be organized to accommodate seasoned cricket players and those who are new to cricket. There are opportunities for absolute beginners to learn cricket, children of all ages, women and men, as the ACCF uses modified rules with the objective of giving all players a chance to bowl, bat and field.

The ACCF was launched with the aim of providing opportunities for Anglicans from the GTA’s diverse communities to get to know each other as a church community and build relationships, and enjoy food, fun and good Christian fellowship. If you are interested in playing as an individual or a church team, or if you’d simply like to volunteer, email rmendis1@gmail.com.

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The festival evolved from a friendly cricket encounter in 2016 between St. Thomas a Becket, Erin Mills South and St. Peter, Erindale. It is now one of the most fun and engaging community events on the diocesan calendar. Last year’s gathering, attended by Bishop Jenny Andison and Brampton Mayor Patrick Brown, saw nine Anglican churches fielding 10 teams. At the recent Bishop’s Levee at St. James Cathedral, Bishop Andison highlighted the importance of community engagement events such as this in letting our light shine and works glorify.

With more than half of the GTA’s population born outside of Canada, the importance of globally popular sports such as cricket has been recognized by policy makers in schools and municipalities. The annual cricket festival was built with the objective of providing opportunities for Anglicans from the GTA’s diverse communities to get to know each other as a church community and build relationships, enjoy food, fun and good Christian fellowship. There are opportunities for women, men, children from all ages, seasoned cricket players as well as absolute beginners as festival uses modified rules with the objective of giving all players a chance to bowl, bat and field.

The following churches took part in last year’s event: St. Thomas a Becket, Erin Mills South, St. Peter, Erindale, Trinity Church, Streetsville, Holy Family, Heart Lake in Brampton, St. Joseph of Nazareth, Bramalea, St. James the Apostle, Brampton, St. Jude, Brampton, Christ Church, Brampton and St Bede, Scarborough.

Ranil Mendis, ODT, is a member of the Anglican Church Cricket Festival Committee. If you are interested in playing as an individual or as a team, email him at rmendis1@gmail.com.

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