By Frederick Halley
PRESIDENT of the Scarborough Cricket Association (SCA), Shiv Persaud, is excited for what the future holds for the entity he has been privileged to lead.
During his remarks at last Saturday night’s 46th annual presentation, dinner and dance, held at the Grand Cinnamon Banquet Hall in Markham, Ontario, Canada, Persaud stressed that the SCA’s emphasis remains firm: “to create opportunities for the community to engage with cricket, to strengthen grassroots development, and to build a transparent and effective pathway for players and officials to rise from league cricket to the provincial and national stages.
“Tonight, we gather to celebrate excellence, dedication, and the continued growth of cricket in our beloved community.”
According to the Guyanese-born Persaud, “we are proud to see many of our athletes and umpires already moving forward along that pathway, representing the SCA and the community of Scarborough with pride.”
He pointed out that over the past year, “we have seen tremendous growth in interest, participation, and meaningful conversations about new facilities, improved maintenance, and expanded play across the region. With your support and engagement, the SCA will continue to lead the voice for cricket in Scarborough.”
Persaud described the night as a celebration, of talent, of commitment, of partnership, and of community. “Let us enjoy this exceptional evening together as we honour our achievers and continue building a bright future for cricket in Scarborough.
“We are here to recognise the outstanding individual and team performances across both our youth and adult divisions. Whether you are a young athlete taking your first steps into competitive cricket or a senior player leading your team with experience and discipline, your achievements are the foundation of the SCA’s success.”
One of the main highlights of the night’s programme was the induction of two long-standing players – Ismail Mogra of Bawa X1 and Fareed Mohamed of Durham United into the SCA Hall of Fame which was introduced last year. Mogra was unavoidably absent.
Persaud described the two as individuals whose contributions have shaped the history and identity of the SCA. “Their leadership continues to inspire every player, official, and volunteer in our association.”
The SCA President also acknowledged the umpires from the Canada Cricket Umpires Association (CCUA), pointing out that they uphold the integrity and spirit of cricket, “and without your commitment, our league would not function at the high standard we strive for. Thank you for your service to the game.” As a token of appreciation, medals were awarded to all the umpires who officiated in the 2025 season.
“To our valued sponsors, Win Sports & Uniforms, The Bat Engineer, Niloufer Flavors, Aura Lounge & Café, Oodles Wok located on Lebovic and expanding across the community, and Bedessee Sporting Goods, we extend our sincere gratitude. Your partnership fuels the continued progress of the SCA and allows us to invest in development, facilities, and meaningful opportunities for our players.”
Among those in attendance were several Toronto City officials, including Councillor Neethan Shan, Ward 25 Scarborough North; Councillor Parthi Kandavel, Scarborough Southwest; MP Michael Coteau, Scarborough–Woburn; Councillor Brad Bradford -East York; MP Salma Zahid, Scarborough Centre, who has always championed the SCA and provided the opportunity for the body to meet with The Honourable Adam van Koeverden, Secretary of State for Sport; Councillor Jamaal Myers, Scarborough North, who continues to work closely with the SCA to create more facilities and MP Doly Begum, Scarborough Southwest.
Persaud thanked the officials for their presence and ongoing commitment to the growth of cricket in the community.
