Vadodara: Canada’s Under‑19 women’s cricket team may wear the maple leaf on their jerseys, but its journey is being shaped significantly by Indian talent and cricketing culture.Seven of the 11 players selected for Canada’s Under‑19 Women’s T20 World Cup qualifiers this year are of Indian origin, reflecting the deep connection the diaspora continues to share with the sport. Adding to the blend is Gujarati coach Jay Nayakwade, who is guiding the young side as it takes its first steps on the international stage.This marks the first time Canada has assembled a junior women’s team for the Under‑19 World Cup, scheduled to be played next year. Nayakwade, an International Cricket Council-certified coach, sees the initiative as part of a broader push to grow the women’s game.“Cricket Canada has decided to promote women’s cricket at grassroots level across the country. We want to build a strong women’s cricket team for the future as well,” Nayakwade told TOI.Asked about the strong presence of Indian-origin players in the squad, Nayakwade pointed to the enduring influence of India’s cricketing culture. “There is a strong cricketing culture in India where this sport is a religion. Many Indians, who settled in Canada years ago, are still passionate about cricket. Irrespective of gender, they want their children to play professional cricket.”He also highlighted the opportunities available to young women in Canada. “Canada has fantastic facilities for women’s cricket. In fact, many academies here offer free coaching to young and aspiring women cricketers. It draws a lot of girls, especially of Indian origin, to the sport,” said Nayakwade, who has been coaching the Under‑19 team for the past six months.The coaching staff, including assistant coach Ajib Hanif, scouted talent across the country before finalising a squad that will compete against Under‑19 teams from the US, Argentina and Brazil in the qualifiers to be held in Aug.An experienced trainer, Nayakwade previously coached Canada’s senior women’s team in 2023 and has also worked with the country’s Under‑19 boys’ side. He is optimistic about what lies ahead.“All the girls are very promising and practising hard. I am hopeful that they will qualify for the Under‑19 World Cup,” said Nayakwade, a former Baroda cricketer.
