Canadian immigrants who originate from the Indian subcontinent are helping to make cricket a popular sport in Canada. Mike Colle, Minister for Immigration and Citizenship in Ontario, is presently in St. Lucia to encourage the Canadian team at the cricket World Cup.

With players originating from the Caribbean, Pakistan, India, and England, the Canadian cricket team is a prime example of Canadian multiculturalism. “The new immigrants that are coming from Pakistan, India, and Bangladesh are further promoting the game, so now you have the strong base with the West Indians/Canadians that love cricket, being supplemented by immigrants who are coming in great numbers,” explained Colle. He stated that cricket is the number one sport in Canada amongst West Indians and that it is becoming increasingly popular throughout the nation.

Though the Canadian team’s loss to Kenya last Wednesday was disappointing, the minister expects the team to bounce back and become a solid contender in Group C.