Saad Bin Zafar has always been obsessed with cricket. Growing up in Pakistan, where the sport is a national passion, he began playing with his friends in the streets at age 10. After moving to Toronto at 17, Zafar (BBA 2011 UTSC) joined an amateur club in the city. He spent years competing in unpaid local leagues, but his perseverance paid off. First called up to the Canadian National Cricket Team in 2008, he became a full-time professional player in 2018 and captained Canada to its first-ever appearance in the T20 Cricket World Cup last year.
How did you get into cricket?
Cricket is the number one sport in Pakistan. Like most kids, I started on the streets with “tape ball.” You can’t use a hard leather ball – it’ll break windows or dent cars. Wrapping a tennis ball in electrical tape gives it a similar weight and bounce without the risk of damage.
What was the cricket scene like in Canada when you first arrived?
The leagues were competitive, but there were few opportunities to earn money. After graduating, I chose corporate jobs that allowed flexibility for time off, whether through vacation or unpaid leave, so I could travel for cricket tours with Canada. It wasn’t until 2018 that professional leagues and the national team provided enough financial support for me to leave my corporate job and pursue cricket full-time.
Were you able to play during your time at UTSC?
Yes, I played in amateur leagues during my undergrad, joined an indoor tennis ball league in the old gym, and participated in intramurals. I played on a select U of T team that competed in university tournaments. I still keep in touch with many of the players from that time.
What was it like to captain Canada in a World Cup?
It was a tremendous honour—playing in a World Cup was a dream come true, and captaining Canada made it even more special. Our win against Ireland, a team ranked much higher than us, was a major upset and a proud moment for the whole Canadian cricket fraternity. Walking out for the national anthem, knowing you’re leading your team into a World Cup match, is a feeling that’s hard to put into words. It’s a surreal experience that I’ll carry with me forever.
What is the most challenging aspect of playing cricket?
Cricket demands athleticism and technical skill, but the hardest parts are consistency and mental toughness. You can have a brilliant match one day and struggle the next. Keeping a steady form, whether batting or bowling, is incredibly difficult. At the top level, being able to bounce back after a poor performance is the real test.
What will help cricket grow in Canada?
We need more cricket grounds and stadiums that meet international standards. Brampton’s year-round facility is a good start. Better infrastructure, coaching and mentorship will attract young players. The passion is there – we just need the support to unlock its full potential.
Your cricket hero?
Wasim Akram
How would teammates describe you?
Mr. Dependable
Favourite non-cricket sport?
Badminton
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