The first ever T-10 Cricket tournament in Vernon, British Columbia was a success, organized by the North Okanagan Cricket Club.
NOCC: The organizers
Special memento presented to MLA by NOCC Club president Sanjeewa Ranasinghe
The North Okanagan Cricket Club (NOCC), based out of Vernon BC, was the brainchild behind the tournament. The club’s president, Sanjeewa Ranasinghe, said, “This is the first ever T-10 cricket tournament in this region, and we hope to make this an annual encounter, promoting cricket at all levels.” He also thanked the organizers, volunteers, and spectators for their support and enthusiasm., Hashan Sirisena from team NOCC, mentioned that “Cricket is the fastest growing sport in Canada, and a great community builder, promoting sportsmanship and unity among different people and cultures”. He also highlighted that the team is looking to establish a cricket ground in Vernon and working together with the city of Vernon and the MLA’s office.
The squad comprises of over 15 members and played their first hard ball game in the year 2020. With limited resources and talent Sanjeewa managed to build the team from the ground up and now dominate the cricketing fraction in the city of Vernon. The Okanagan region now have cricket grounds in all major cities with multiple facilities in development. Cricket is not only a sport but it also assists many new immigrants moving to Canada from the Asian continent to acclimatize to the culture and norms and have a family away from family.
Cricket: A sport for everyone
The T-10 Cricket tournament was a showcase of the talent and passion for cricket in the Okanagan region, and a testament to the diversity and inclusiveness of the sport. The tournament featured players from different backgrounds, ages, and skill levels, who all shared a common love for the game. The tournament also attracted a lot of interest and attention from the local media and the public, who enjoyed the spectacle of cricket in a scenic setting. The tournament was a success, and a sign of the growing popularity and of cricket in Canada. If you are interested in playing or partnering with the team please email [email protected] and try it out!
Group picture with Okanagan Lions, Okanagan United and team NOCC
