Episode 34 of European Cricket Stories takes us to the Adriatic coast and deep into Croatia’s unique cricket story. 🎙️

ECN Founder Daniel Weston sits down with Mate Jukić, President of Croatian Cricket, to explore a journey that blends personal passion, historic roots and modern development. Mate’s first memories of cricket go back to his childhood, when his father bought him a plastic cricket bat and he practiced backyard shots with bins serving as stumps.

Croatia’s cricket history stretches much further back than many might expect. The first recorded cricket match dates back to 1809 on the island of Vis, where the British Navy was stationed. Remarkably, the cricket ground on Vis still exists today and is regularly played on, widely regarded as one of the most spectacular cricket grounds in the world.

Mate explains how modern Croatian cricket began on Vis before gradually expanding to the mainland. Over time, cricket centres and grounds were developed in Zagreb, the national team was established and Croatia achieved ICC Affiliate status. Today, the game continues to grow with grounds in Split, Zadar, two venues in Zagreb, alongside the historic ground on Vis.

The conversation also highlights the importance of the Mediterranean Cricket League, with countries such as Montenegro, Slovenia and Serbia taking part. This regional competition has helped spark greater local interest, strengthen rivalries and accelerate the growth of cricket across the region.

New episodes of European Cricket Stories are released every Tuesday and Thursday, sharing the people, places and passion driving European cricket forward.

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Watch the full episode https://youtu.be/IsemN2N7q4k