In the opening match of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024, Canada faced the United States of America (USA) at the Grand Prairie Stadium in Dallas, Texas on Saturday, June 1. Canada posted an impressive total of 194/5 in their 20 overs, thanks to stellar performances by Navneet Dhaliwal (61) and Nicholas Kirton (51). Despite this strong total, the USA successfully chased down the target in 17.4 overs, driven by Aaron Jones’ unbeaten 94 and Andries Gous’ 65.
Here are three intriguing facts about Nicholas Kirton, whose half-century was crucial for Canada’s first innings total:
1. Dual Eligibility: West Indies and Canada
Nicholas Kirton was born in Barbados, making him eligible to represent the West Indies in international cricket. However, his mother was born in Canada, granting him eligibility to play for Canada as well. Kirton chose to represent Canada and is a vital member of their squad for the T20 World Cup. Before his notable 51 against the USA, Kirton also scored 52 in a warm-up match against Nepal, showcasing his consistent form.
2. CPL Experience with Jamaica Tallawahs
Kirton’s cricketing journey includes playing for the Jamaica Tallawahs in the Caribbean Premier League (CPL) in 2020. The 26-year-old regularly competes in domestic cricket in the West Indies and represents the Barbados national team. He made his first-class debut in the 2018-19 season against Trinidad and Tobago in Tarouba. His List A debut came earlier, playing for Canada against Oman in Windhoek, Namibia. Kirton’s T20 debut was in 2019 for Canada against Jersey at the Tolerance Oval in Abu Dhabi during a T20 World Cup Qualifier.
3. ODI Debut for Canada in 2023
Kirton’s dual eligibility allows him to play for both the West Indies and Canada. Despite playing domestic cricket for Barbados in the West Indies, he opted to represent Canada internationally. He made his ODI debut for Canada in 2023 against Jersey in Windhoek, Namibia. Kirton aspires to see Canada become a full member of the ICC, which would allow him to play Test cricket for them—a format every cricketer dreams of.
Nicholas Kirton’s diverse cricketing background and impressive performances make him a player to watch in the ongoing T20 World Cup. Canada hopes his skills and experience will lead them to greater heights in international cricket.
