Montfort ecstatic with Canada called-up

By Ravi Madholall in Toronto

Former Guyana National Industrial Corporation (GNIC) first-division player Mark Montfort is ecstatic with his call up to the Canada team for the upcoming International Cricket Council (ICC) Division Three limited-over tournament slated for Uganda.

Montfort, who would have represented his adopted country several months ago in couple warm-up matches against ICC Associates team Bermuda in Canada, also expressed confidence of doing well once he finds himself in the final 15-man touring party.

Mark Montfort

Cricket Canada selectors recently announced a 21-member training squad under the watchful eyes of ex-Canada fast-bowler and now assistant coach Henry Osinde.

According to the 31-year-old Montfort, his ambition is to feature in the red and white colours and make an immediate impression while he simultaneously stated that he is optimistic of making the final 11.

“I [am] happy to be selected once again; I was delighted to be a part of the side last year against Bermuda and with some good performances I am also confident of making my debut in the ICC tournament and I am excited,” Montfort related.

Since he began his cricketing career in North America, the left-handed batsman plays professionally in the annual Toronto and District Cricket Association Elite 50-over tournament for Brampton Masters Cricket Club, who are the defending champions.

His determination and perseverance have continued to pay dividends after he was selected for the practice games against the touring Bermuda, who was here to prepare for an ICC assignment.

Montfort produced two fine batting displays scoring half-centuries while he churned out an impressive bowling performance to supplement his all-round contributions.

“Since I began playing in Canada in 2010, I started to play hard and committed cricket because I have been aspiring to represent Canada on the international scene and having played in two matches really gives me great confidence to strive for more success,” the occasional right-arm medium-pacer mentioned.

With his high motivation to play for Canada, Montfort stated that he is enjoying his game and always tries vigorously to enhance his skills in all aspects as well.

“This is a great opportunity for me to make an impact; again, I am very confident of helping Canada keep advancing at the ICC tournament; we have a good team and I am sure all the players are anxious to be in the final squad and to do well for Canada,” the former Demerara Senior Inter-County player declared.

In recognition of his talent after his first appearance, shortly after the national selectors named Montfort in their team to play at the Auty Cup limited-over tournament against USA but Montfort could not have travelled owing a documentation issue but that was soon resolved.

He commented that he had unfortunately missed out on a wonderful chance to showcase his tremendous ability but that did not daunt his dreams to make it on the huge occasion, especially when looking to prove his cricketing expertise.

Canada, who was relegated by the ICC after failing to qualify at the T20 and 50-over World Cup tournaments two years ago, will have a chance again to redeem themselves at this tournament which will commence in mid-May.

Meanwhile, prior to the ICC tournament, the Canadian side will be travelling to Barbados for some practice games against some club teams in effort to intensify their preparations.