The Croatian Cricket Federation (CCF) has announced a strengthened agreement with the European Cricket League (ECL) and the European Cricket Network (ECN) in the next step of collaboration between the two bodies.
On top of funding to be provided directly into youth cricket and the improvement of venues, the agreement also delivers an increase of funding for hosting and participation in domestic and international matches for men’s and women’s cricket within the European Cricket framework.
In a bid to “create awareness about cricket as a sport”, the partnership will include facilitating initiatives such as the organisation of both senior domestic and international tournaments, as well as youth development programmes.
“We believe that cricket has tremendous potential in our country and with the help of ECN, we hope to create a strong foundation for Cricket to grow and flourish,” President of CCF Mate Jukic said.
“It is a major stepping stone for us to strengthen the development of the game in Croatia, especially with young girls and boys at schools.”
Cricket goes back to the early 1800s in Croatia, with records of the in the country from as far back as 1811.
As the CCF strives to build the game in the country, Weston, who has personal ties to the country, shares Jukic’s sentiments.
“Croatia has a special place in my heart. My great grandparents were Croatian and emigrated to Australia over 100 years ago which shaped my upbringing.
“I had some of my first incredible experiences as a European cricketer when touring Croatia to play cricket in Vis and Split and meeting the passionate local cricket community. There are so many proud Croatians both inside and outside Croatia that love cricket so much.
“To be able to directly help the cricketers and future cricketers of Croatia is an incredible feeling.”
Along with their participation in the European Cricket League, the Champions League of European cricket, Croatia will also participate in the European Cricket Championship in September this year in Cartama, Spain.
Croatia also host a leg of the European Cricket Series from October 23 to November.
