Northern Ontario’s premier cricket tournament returns

Soo North Cup cricket tournament kicks off in the Sault, drawing 8 teams from across northern Ont. The 4-day event at John Rhodes Cricket Field boosts tourism.

The second annual Soo North Cup, the largest cricket tournament in northern Ontario, kicked off Friday with eight teams from five cities competing in four days of high-level play.

Athletes from Thunder Bay, North Bay, Sudbury, Timmins and Winnipeg have gathered at the John Rhodes Cricket Field, bringing an estimated 350 out-of-town visitors to Sault Ste. Marie. Organizers with the SSM Cricket Club told CTV News that the event showcases the region’s top talent, fostering both competition and camaraderie.

Growing popularity of cricket in the north

Cricket has seen significant growth in northern Ontario, with Sault Ste. Marie alone boasting nine local teams. However, the Soo North Cup is designed as an all-star tournament, featuring the best players from across the region.

Haroon Butt, a tournament organizer, emphasized the event’s broader impact.

“From Thunder Bay to Timmins to North Bay to Sudbury to Winnipeg,” he said. “They love coming here, and it not only boosts tourism or gives them a reason to play, but gives them a reason to connect with each other, especially in the north.”

More than just a sporting event

Beyond the matches, the tournament strengthens ties within the cricket community and introduces visitors to the Sault’s attractions. Jay Inamdar, a supporter of the Thunder Bay Gujarat Lions, highlighted the cultural and culinary experiences.

“You explore the different restaurants, like Indian restaurants, or you go to different pizza places,” Inamdar said. “You try different cuisines here, and you can suggest places back in Thunder Bay, like, ‘When you travel to Sault Ste. Marie, you can stay here, explore this area, or go to some of the nice beaches.’ Those things are really, really good.”

Kalrav Barot of the Big Nickel Cricket Club echoed the sentiment, noting the family-friendly appeal of the event.

“We spend three or four days here,” Barot said. “We explore the surrounding area, like Lake Superior. You can spend family time – that’s why we have family here too. Family time, game, and make friends.”

An invitation to the community

Local organizers encourage Sault Ste. Marie residents to attend, assuring newcomers that the rules are easy to pick up and the matches are enjoyable. Games run daily from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. at the John Rhodes Cricket Field, with the tournament concluding Monday.

Organizers say the Soo North Cup not only highlights the sport’s rising popularity but also reinforces the bonds between northern Ontario’s cricket communities.