Hellenic Cricket Federation and British Embassy organising sports events for King Charles΄ birthday

We all know that the British are the reason why cricket has been played in Corfu for over 200 years, as well as the fact that hundreds of teams from that country have come to compete on our island, with love and admiration for the field at the Lower Square, Liston.

Essentially, the term 'Greek cricket' is inextricably linked with the British, and the announcement that the British Embassy, together with the Hellenic Cricket Federation (ELOK), are organising sports events to celebrate the birthday of King Charles III did not surprise us—mainly because we all know he has a special fondness for Corfu and Greece. After all, his great-grandfather on his father’s side was the Greek George I of Greece.

Lakis Goustis on a trip to Britain

Regarding the sporting aspect (cricket), we spoke with Lakis Goustis, a former player for Vyronas and the national team, and for many years an official of the Federation, who has faced dozens of British teams both here and in Britain. He told us:

"The British Embassy, in honour of King Charles III, who celebrates his birthday on June 11, is organising a series of events in his honour. These events include, on June 9 at 10:30 a.m. at the Gouvia Marina cricket field, a Master Class by veteran player Andy Caddick for primary and secondary school pupils who play cricket and are players from our clubs. In the afternoon of the same day, there will be a second Master Class for young people aged 15–20 who make up our national and pre-national teams. On the following day, June 10, at 4:30 p.m. in Spianada, a match will be held with the participation of the British Ambassador and UK officials. On June 11, a reception will be held in honour of King Charles at the Museum of Paleopolis."

ELOK Press Release

The Hellenic Cricket Federation and the British Embassy are organizing sporting events to celebrate the birthday of King Charles III.

The Hellenic Cricket Federation (ELOK), in collaboration with the British Embassy in Athens, announces the organisation of a series of events to celebrate the birthday of King Charles III.

The events include:

• A training session with Andy Caddick on June 9, where players will have the opportunity to attend a specialised coaching session.

• A match in Lower Square on June 10, featuring the participation of the British Ambassador to Athens and embassy staff, in a celebration of sport and friendship.

In parallel, as a separate activity, matches will be held with the Sydney Veterans team from Sydney, Australia, on June 2, 4, 7, and 8. This is an international exchange and sports collaboration with the experienced team of veteran athletes, highlighting the enduring nature and passion for cricket.

ELOK expresses its delight at this collaboration and invites players and cricket enthusiasts to actively participate in these events, which promote international cooperation and sporting culture.

SPYROS PIKOULAS

Photos: ELOK