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19/09/2024 05:30
County Championship Division One
Lancashire vs Somerset County
Canadian Cricket Team. Source: Cricket Canada Facebook page

SWOT Analysis of the Canadian Cricket Team: What They Need to Pay Special Attention to

The highly awaited ICC T20 World Cup 2024 commenced on June 1st. Never before had such a large number of teams participated in a single tournament. The competition has been split into three phases. The journey began with the group stages, where a total of 20 teams took part. The Super 8s followed this and, eventually, the knockout rounds. The final took place on June 29th. It is widely acknowledged that the Indian team celebrated their victory.

However, what about Canada? What this national team was missing to achieve successful performances. Let’s conduct a comprehensive analysis of Canada's strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats for the ICC T20 World Cup 2024.

Canadian Cricket Team. Source: Cricket Canada Facebook page

Canada's Dominance in the ICC T20 World Cup 2024

  1. Powerful Lineup at the Plate

Canada possesses a formidable middle order, setting it apart from other Associate Nations. Navneet Dhaliwal and Nicholas Kirton are the key figures in the batting lineup. Navneet is an exceptional performer when it comes to scoring runs among players from Associate Nations and possesses a wealth of valuable experience. Aaron Johnson, the opener, adds another formidable element to the batting lineup. It's pretty uncommon to witness someone with an average of over 50 and a strike rate of over 165 in T20Is.

2. Skilled Multi-Talents

One of the most significant advantages of an associate nation is its ability to field players who can make valuable contributions with both the bat and ball. Canada is set to make its mark in the T20 World Cup 2024 as well. This team boasts a remarkable 7-8 players who possess the ability to make significant contributions in both offence and defence. And you know what's even more impressive? The majority of them are consistent members of the starting lineup. Consider the extensive depth of their batting lineup and the abundance of bowling choices at the captain's disposal. It's truly a luxury for any captain to have such a wide array of options.

2011 ICC World Cup in India. Source: Cricket Canada Facebook page

Identifying Canada’s Areas of Improvement for the Icc T20 World Cup 2024

Limited Exposure to Competing Against Top-Tier Opponents

Canada needs more exposure to the T20I format. Since their introduction in 2008, they have participated in a mere 58 T20Is, averaging approximately four matches per year. That is different from the appropriate course of action for your team. They have participated in a more significant number of One Day Internationals (ODIs) compared to Twenty20 Internationals (T20Is); thus, adapting to the different formats may pose a challenge for them. 

Placed in a Strong Group

The outcome of advancing in a major tournament is also influenced by the specific group you are assigned to. Unfortunately, Canada isn't as fortunate, as they find themselves in a group consisting of three nations with test-playing status and a host country. India and Pakistan have a high probability of performing admirably. Ireland will pose a formidable challenge given their impressive performance, followed by the USA, who have recently emerged victorious against Bangladesh. Canada may also experience a sense of misfortune.

Potential Challenge for Canada in the ICC T20 World Cup 2024

One primary concern for this team is the possibility of entering the ICC T20 World Cup 2024 without adequate preparation. Their final international series took place in March. One of the factors contributing to their lack of success is their underdeveloped structure. Therefore, the team must overcome all obstacles in the upcoming competition.

At Rogers Centre Stadium. Source: Cricket Canada Facebook page

Exciting Prospects for the ICC T20 World Cup 2024

Despite the numerous challenges faced by Canada, there is potential to view them in a positive light. There is no doubt that they will perform better in the next championships.

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