The Gangas embrace life as Global Citizens

Born in Trinidad and Tabago and accustomed to the Island lifestyle, Ganga has embraced his new life down under alongside his wife, Pranita – who was born and raised in Melbourne – and their new baby boy, Markes.

Since his first visit to Australia with the West Indian team in 1999 Ganga formed a strong affiliation with Australia and said he has many fond memories playing across all states and territories.

“I had great on the field experiences and off the field experiences, so for me, coming to Australia is reconnecting with the past. I love the pace of life here in Melbourne and I love the diversity and inclusiveness, I feel very much at home,” Ganga said.

Immersing himself in his new community, Ganga has teamed up with the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup as a ‘2022 Champion’ to embrace and celebrate Australia’s cultural diversity and promote inclusion using the power of cricket – a cause he is very passionate about.

“For me, to be a part of the Champions initiative to help promote the event and bring communities together is fantastic, especially for those that might not have a connection with the game, to give them a taste is so valuable,” Ganga said.

“This sport is a way of life for many of us and for me personally, having had the chance to play test match cricket as a teenager, everything that I know about life is related in some way to cricket and I’d love to share this with everyone.

“That is what this champions program will do, it will be inclusive, it is going to be diverse, it is going to touch communities, it is going to be a celebration of cricket and an opportunity to enhance and grow this game.”

It’s clear Ganga’s love of cricket runs deep and thanks to his friend and fellow West Indian cricketer, Darryl Brown – who also lives in Melbourne – Ganga has joined a local club in his new community and reignited his competitive streak that saw him play 48 Tests, 35 ODIs, multiple T20Is and score more than 8,500 first class runs.

“It started off with me trying to play a couple of games to get myself ready for a tournament, to me continuing my efforts with the team,” Ganga said.

“Playing for Caroline Springs has allowed me to learn more about Melbourne, get to know the suburbs and I have built relationships and friendships that I know will last for a lifetime.”

Getting out into the community, making new friends and reconnecting with each other is what the program aims to do, and forms the cornerstone of the legacy the T20 World Cup will leave behind.

Click here to find out more about the ‘2022 Champions’ initiative and view all 38 profiles.