News Americas, TORONTO, Canada, Mon. June 26, 2023: The Toronto Blue Jays celebrated baseball’s bat and ball sporting cousin on Saturday, June 24, with Cricket Day at the Park, as the team took on the Oakland Athletics. The inaugural event featured a first-of-its-kind Blue Jays Replica Cricket Jersey giveaway and a visit from West Indies cricket superstar, Chris Gayle.
Known worldwide as ‘The Universe Boss’ for his prolific power with the bat, Gayle held countless international records across all three cricket formats, most notably at Twenty20 for the West Indies. The generational batsman’s visit to Toronto included batting practice with the team and throwing out the ceremonial first pitch, among other pregame activities.
Gayle was joined at batting practice by former Cricket Canada men’s captain, Rizwan Cheema, and current national team members Hiba Shamshad, Harsh Thaker, and Saad Zafar. In a video shared on Instagram by the Toronto Blue Jays, Gayle expressed his excitement about the event and emphasized his passion for cricket.
Additionally, fans were able to explore a Cricket Canada memorabilia display at section 127, showcasing iconic moments, memorabilia, and offering the opportunity to learn more about the game, while Cricket Canada athletes participated in a postgame ticketed autograph session.
That wasn’t all…fans were able to join in the cricket fun with batting and bowling simulators at section 536, as well as enjoy a design your own cricket bat kids craft corner at section 239. For the foodies, the Outfield District served up a specialty snack and drink – samosas and Dark & Stormy cocktails.
The event provided a wonderful opportunity to celebrate and learn more about one of the most popular sports in the world while enjoying Blue Jays baseball.
