Cricket pitch opens at Winnipeg park

Pro cricket teams can now stop in Winnipeg thanks to a major upgrade at Assiniboine Park.

A new space for one of the fastest-growing sports in Winnipeg officially opened Wednesday morning.

The Princess Auto Cricket Pitch, located in Assiniboine Park, celebrated its grand opening following a redevelopment of the pitch.

“The redevelopment of these facilities will position Assiniboine Park as the premier cricket venue in Manitoba, and create new opportunities to support athlete development and host competitions at every level,” said Ray Karasevich, president and CEO of Assiniboine Park Conservancy.

The Manitoba Cricket Association said the sport has a long history in the province. The first recorded cricket match in Manitoba was recorded in 1870, and the association has been active since 1937. Assiniboine Park has hosted competitive cricket matches for decades.

Paramjit Singh, president of the association, said the enhancements bring the cricket pitch at the park to international standards.

“This will significantly enhance the quality of cricket in Manitoba and provide our athletes with the opportunity to train and compete on the surface meeting national and international standards,” he said.

Karasevich said the new cricket pitch will be in use this weekend for the Manitoba Cricket Association’s annual jamboree starting Saturday.