Former Nepal and Afghanistan coach aims to rebuild Canada’s cricket culture and deliver consistent international performances

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Monty Desai has been officially appointed as the new head coach of the Canada men’s cricket team, stepping into the role during a challenging period for the nation’s cricket structure. While the duration of his tenure has not yet been disclosed, the appointment signals a renewed push by Cricket Canada to restore its competitive standing on the global stage.

Desai brings with him extensive experience, having previously worked with emerging cricket nations such as Nepal national cricket team and Afghanistan national cricket team, along with a strong background in India’s domestic and franchise circuits. His track record of developing competitive squads and fostering discipline is expected to play a key role in Canada’s rebuilding process.

Cricket Canada president Arvinder Khosa emphasized the significance of the appointment, stating that the organization aims to revive its prominence through improved performance, professionalism, and a renewed sense of purpose. He highlighted Desai’s success with Associate nations as a major factor behind the decision.

Canada’s recent performances have underscored the urgency for change. The team endured a difficult campaign at the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, losing all four of their group-stage matches against Afghanistan, New Zealand, South Africa, and United Arab Emirates. The situation worsened when reports surfaced that the International Cricket Council’s anti-corruption unit was investigating allegations related to a World Cup match involving Canada.

Despite these setbacks, Desai remains optimistic about the team’s future. He expressed gratitude for the opportunity and highlighted Canada’s untapped potential, noting the passion for cricket within the country. He also pointed to the success stories of other Associate nations as proof that belief, structure, and discipline can transform teams into strong competitors.

Looking ahead, Desai’s primary focus will be on building a strong team culture, improving consistency, and positioning Canada as a competitive force in international cricket. With a critical phase ahead, his leadership could prove pivotal in shaping the next chapter of Canadian cricket.