The Asia/ Canada XI won the skydome 20-20 match in an event that appeared to be modestly attended, but enjoyable. The makeshift artificial wicket was playable, although the bowlers were challenged in their run-ups and the square boundaries were very short.

Neil Davidson reported the event for the Canadian Press and highlighted the Canadian contribution

“I’m very happy with all the guys from Canada. They did well,” said Cheema, who took two wickets and slammed a pair of sixes. “That’s a really good thing, a good thing for the country. People need to know we are up there — on the world (cricket) stage.” (full story)

The game was covered live by Sportsnet, a professional job although with almost no adverts suggesting sales were difficult.

Brian Lara, one of the players most used in promotional material did not make an appearance, with Grant Flower filling in for him- no explanation was provided.

Aman Dhanoa provided a detailed report for the Digital Journal
“Despite being robbed of large portion of its star power two days prior, the cricket all-star Twenty20 match in Toronto was entertaining and did not lose its competitive spirit. The crowd at Rogers Centre in Toronto was much smaller than expected but those who came out were treated to an exciting match”

The organizers may have hoped of a repeat of the 40,000 crowd at the last Skydome game over a decade ago, but even with the no-shows of the most hyped stars it’s clear there is an appetite for high level cricket in Toronto. Perhaps if the organizers have not been hit too hard financially they will learn from their mistakes and we may see a repeat in the future.