![]() So, now we know all about Corfu’s cricketing past, let’s take a look at its present. His role is a really important part of Corfu’s heritage – something that’s clearly shown in the fact that the first ever John Fort International Cup was played on the island this September (2013). After this, Corfu cricket grew and grew – and today’s prestigious reputation is a testament to this resurgence in popularity and gameplay. ![]() The response was strong as a result of the appeal, roughly 350 balls and 50 bats had been sent to the island within a few months of its publication. He decided to take action, writing in the late 1950s to the Daily Telegraph appealing for people to send any equipment they no longer needed to the island. John Forte was Britain’s honorary vice-consul on Corfu, and he noticed how the play of cricket dwindled after the start – and following the end – of World War II. While it’s impossible to know what could have been, cricket might have vanished from the island had it not been for a man named John Forte. For instance, after the second world war its popularity waned – a problem largely perpetuated by a lack of equipment and funding. ![]() While Corfu got into cricket back in the 19th century, its path wasn’t always smooth. Over time, the Corfiot players developed their own lingo for the sport, and its nickname became ‘fermaro kai issia’, which in English translates as ‘block and wallop’. Seeing the game, the locals’ interest was piqued, and they began asking questions about the rules and the scoring – and the rest is history. That year, officers of the Royal Navy and the British Garrison played a cricket match here on St George’s Day. It was indeed the British that got the islanders into it – something that happened in 1823, to be precise. Given that if you didn’t already you now know that Corfu was held by the British for a spell, it’s likely you have a fairly accurate inkling of how cricket became so popular on the island. But, Corfu was once occupied by the British, and it’s here that the island’s cricketing story begins. Unless you’re a serious follower of the sport (and I suppose if you’re reading this you may well be), Corfu isn’t exactly an obvious candidate for cricketing capers – not like England, Australia and India. What might catch you out, though, is its longstanding love of cricket. Take Corfu: this Greek island is famous for its sunshine, beaches, food and walks – no surprises there, I’m sure. One of the great things about travel is that even well-known destinations still have the capacity to surprise you.
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