Canada captain arrested over drugs charges
The arrest of Canada cricket captain Nicholas Kirton has sent shock waves through the ICC Americas region and put into doubt his participation against Bermuda in a few weeks’ time.
The 26-year-old was also announced this week as an international signing for the second edition of the Bermuda Smash Invitational in June.
According to overseas media reports, the Barbadian-born star was held by police at Grantley Adams International Airport on Sunday after arriving in his homeland on an Air Canada flight.
He is said to be assisting authorities in an investigation in relation to 20 pounds of cannabis that was seized at the airport.
Cricket Canada said in a statement published on its homepage that it is monitoring developments while the national team continue preparations for the North American Cup.
Kirton, who helped Canada to clinch the second Americas spot for the 2024 ICC T20 World Cup during the regional qualifier in Bermuda two years ago, is eligible to play international cricket for both West Indies and Canada because his mother is Canadian.
The batting all-rounder played for West Indies Under-19 and Barbados before migrating to Canada.
He was appointed as captain in July 2024 and last led Canada in a 12-run loss to Namibia on Duckworth/Lewis method at Wanderers Cricket Ground on March 15.
Kirton has also represented Combined Campuses and Colleges in the West Indies domestic four-day league, Jamaica Tallawahs in the Caribbean Premier League and Montreal Tigers and Toronto Nationals in Global T20 in Canada.
The player’s arrest comes in the lead-up to the North American Cup in the Cayman Islands involving regional powerhouses Canada and the United States, Bermuda, Bahamas and the host nation.
The tournament, which is a warm-up for the 2026 ICC T20 World Cup Americas Regional Final in Canada, will be held from April 19 to 27.
The Bermuda Cricket Board declined to comment on the matter when contacted by The Royal Gazette, while Bermuda Smash Invitational organisers are being sought for comment.
Toronto, Ontario – April 3, 2025: Cricket Canada has been made aware of the recent allegations and detainment involving national team player Nicholas Kirton. We are actively monitoring the situation and closely following developments as they unfold. Cricket Canada is committed to ensuring transparency and will provide updates as more details become available.
We take this matter seriously and remain steadfast in upholding the highest standards of integrity and accountability within the sport. While this situation is being addressed, we would like to assure the public that our national men’s team are fully focused on their preparations for the upcoming North American Cup, set to begin on April 18 in the Cayman Islands.
Cricket Canada remains dedicated to supporting the team as they continue to represent our country with pride and professionalism.
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