Cricket Canada has released a statement confirming it is "actively monitoring" the arrest of national team captain Nicholas Kirton in Barbados.

According to local reports, the 26-year-old batting allrounder was detained at Grantley Adams International Airport on Sunday (14 April) on suspicion of involvement with narcotics. Barbados Police are yet to issue an official comment regarding the charges.

Key Details:

• Player Profile: Kirton averages 32.12 in ODIs and 27.26 in T20Is for Canada
• Background: Born in Barbados but qualified for Canada through maternal lineage
• Career: Former West Indies U-19 player turned Canadian international since 2019
• Leadership: Appointed captain in July 2024 ahead of major tournaments

Cricket Canada's Official Response:

"We take this matter seriously and remain steadfast in upholding the highest standards of integrity and accountability within our sport. Our executive team is in contact with local authorities while respecting due process."

Tournament Implications:

The development comes as Canada prepares for the inaugural North American Cup (18 April - 3 May) featuring:

• United States
• Bermuda
• Cayman Islands
• Bahamas

Statistical Snapshot (Kirton for Canada):

The cricket board has not confirmed whether Kirton will retain his captaincy during the investigation. This marks the first major disciplinary incident for Canadian cricket since the team's impressive ICC Challenge League performances in 2023.

BBC Sport has reached out to Cricket West Indies for comment regarding Kirton's previous involvement in their youth system.