Persaud takes the reins of Cricket Ontario

Having served in the capacity of Secretary and more recently Second Vice President, Guyana-born Shiv Persaud has been elevated to the presidency of Cricket Ontario.
Persaud, who also serves as President of Scarborough Cricket Association (SCA) and the Ontario Softball Cricket League (OSCL), replaces long-standing cricket official Mohammed Shaikh.
In an invited comment, Persaud, who relishes challenges, pointed out that his aim was to bring stability and programmes that would be sustainable long term and beneficial for all.
According to Persaud, the various area boards/associations could look forward to “raising the awareness of Cricket Ontario and the pathways that exist, attract more sponsors, and improve the standards at every level, including coaching and officiating”.

Persaud pointed out to opportunities to work together to promote and grow cricket in their area whereby creating a platform for league to provincial to national support at the grassroots level.
Questioned on the recent setbacks facing the beleaguered Cricket Canada, Persaud felt that the body is doing its best at its level. “Our focus will be putting the best effort forward to bring trust and transparency in Ontario, reassuring all of our players, officials, sponsors, and stakeholders.
“Completing our cricket calendar for the summer for our youths, women, girls and seniors in preparation for national tournaments are our key priorities. We will be working diligently as a board and with our committees.”
Since taking over the role of President of the SCA, the body has come a long way with over 120 teams competing in 50, 40, 30 and 20 overs cricket. As its President, Persaud has also brought about noticeable changes in SCA, like introducing multiple formats of the game; emphasising the importance of youth, grassroots development and rejuvenating the youth programme, which includes U19 girls currently on the National U19W Squad.
Apart from Persaud, the others elected at the recent Special Meeting were: First Vice President Farhan Khan, Second Vice President Gurpreet Hothi, Secretary Manish Tomer and Treasurer Safiullah Jalali. The Directors at Large are Ranjit Chaudhri, Zakir Patel, Giridhar Bannaravuri, and Adeel Ahmed.