Here in England, it’s not long until cricket clubs across the country will be dusting off their pads and oiling their bats in preparation for the start of another season. The Ionian Islands may not come to mind when we think about cricket, but it’s a fact that cricket has been played in Corfu since 1823. It was the British who introduced the sport to Greece during their 50 years of occupation in the Ionian Islands until departing in 1864.
Today the Hellenic Cricket Federation, presided over by Joseph Nikitas, is Greece’s cricket governing body. Corfu is where the federation’s headquarters are based and the island is where the sport is predominantly played between 13 official cricket clubs.
Corfu Greeks make up the majority of players and coaches. In addition, some Pakistanis and Afghanis play - one max per club eleven in competitions; and some Australian Greeks from Melbourne enjoy playing for Corfiot clubs.
Throughout the year, there is an active fixture list of competitive and friendly matches and tournaments, which are played in Corfu Town’s historic centre at the Spianada Square (Esplanade). This is not only the largest square in the Balkans, but undoubtedly home to the most atmospheric cricket pitch in Europe. A second pitch located in the marina at Gouvia offers a more practical infrastructure.
The point is if you spend your summers in Corfu, you need not miss out on a little cricketing action, the locals will only be too happy to welcome you, and rain will not stop play!
