Nicholas Kirton Arrested with 9 Kg of Cannabis Canada men’s cricket team captain Nicholas Kirton has been arrested in Barbados after being caught with around 9 kilograms (20 pounds) of cannabis. According to a report from the Jamaica Gleaner, the 26-year-old was detained at Grantley Adams International Airport on Sunday after flying in from Canada.
Kirton’s arrest comes just weeks before he was set to lead the Canadian team in the North America Cup, starting April 19 in the Cayman Islands. The incident has raised serious concerns about his future involvement in the tournament.
Far Beyond Legal Limits
In Barbados, possessing up to two ounces (about 57 grams) of cannabis is decriminalized, but carrying it publicly or exceeding that limit is illegal. Kirton was allegedly found with over 160 times the permitted amount. As a result, he was taken into custody and is currently assisting authorities in their investigation.
Who is Nicholas Kirton?
Born in Barbados, Kirton has represented Barbados at the U-17 and U-19 levels and was even part of the West Indies U-19 squad. However, due to his Canadian heritage through his mother, he chose to represent Canada internationally. He made his international debut in 2018 and was appointed as Canada’s captain across all formats in July 2024.
Kirton has played 21 ODIs and 28 T20Is for Canada, scoring 514 and 627 runs respectively. He has also been a part of teams like Combined Campuses and Colleges, Jamaica Tallawahs (CPL), Montreal Tigers, and Toronto Nationals in various T20 leagues.
Cricket Canada Responds
Cricket Canada issued a statement saying they are aware of the situation and are monitoring developments closely. “We take this matter seriously and remain committed to upholding the highest standards of integrity and accountability within the sport,” the board said.
Despite the controversy, they confirmed that the national team continues to focus on its preparations for the upcoming North America Cup.
Upcoming Tournaments in Doubt
Kirton’s arrest has cast doubt not only on his role in the North America Cup but also his scheduled appearance in the Bermuda Smash Invitational in June. His recent leadership in Canada’s campaigns and experience as an international signing makes this a major setback for Canadian cricket.
The North America Cup, featuring Canada, USA, Bermuda, Bahamas, and the Cayman Islands, will run from April 19 to 27. It also serves as a lead-up to the 2026 ICC T20 World Cup Americas Regional Final.
