Monty Desai Steps Down as Head Coach of Canada Men’s Cricket Team

Monty Desai has resigned from his role as head coach of the Canadian men’s cricket team as of last weekend. Following his departure, Cricket Canada has opened the application process for the head coach position, which will remain open until August 28.

The team is set to compete in the next round of Cricket World Cup League 2 matches starting October 9, where they will face Oman and Nepal in Oman. Currently, Canada sits sixth in the League 2 points table, with four remaining matches in the campaign. The top four teams will qualify for the ODI World Cup qualifier scheduled for next year.

In an Instagram post, Desai reflected on his three-month tenure as interim head coach, stating, “A short chapter, but a meaningful one. Grateful to Cricket Canada for the opportunity to serve as Interim Head Coach over the past three months. Every environment leaves you with learnings.” He emphasized the importance of sustainable performance through “time, trust, preparation, strong relationships and collective ownership,” and expressed his appreciation for the players, support staff, and everyone involved in his journey, as he wished for continued growth and success for Canadian cricket.

This resignation marks Desai’s second stint with the Canadian team, having previously worked with them in 2019. His tenure occurred during a particularly challenging time for Canadian cricket, as he took over the squad after they lost all four matches in the T20 World Cup held in February and March. Subsequently, allegations of corruption during the tournament prompted an investigation by the ICC’s anti-corruption unit, particularly concerning the team’s match against New Zealand.

Furthermore, serious breaches of membership obligations were identified, leading the ICC to suspend funding to Cricket Canada in May. The governing body later announced the suspension of Cricket Canada’s Associate membership following a quarterly meeting in Ahmedabad at the end of May. The board remains suspended, and the ICC has set out reinstatement conditions for Cricket Canada following its annual meetings in Edinburgh last month.

Special Credits: Image Courtesy of Espn