Popular among many Asian and European nations, Cricket is a game stealing the thunder of various other sports for years. It found its roots back in the 16th century in England while shortly two centuries after it had become the national sport of England.
Cricket is setting its roots in Europe faster than it has ever been. A total of 34 countries in the continent have an ICC Status meaning these countries have a proper structure for playing cricket at the international level. Cricket in Europe is managed by the European cricket council formed in 1997 and its headquarters are in London, England. Today we have brought you a list of the 10 best cricket teams in Europe or countries in Europe.
Why is cricket not that popular in European nations?
If a sport has to become popular there needs to be promoters. England were the promoters of cricket in its early stage. They mainly promoted cricket in the countries that were British colonies in erstwhile years. i.e., Commonwealth Countries.
The Commonwealth countries include the likes of England, Wales, Ireland, Scotland, India, Australia, South Africa, New Zealand and so on.
Since England is the country which is considered to be the home of cricket, they’re naturally good at it. Here good in the sense, being among the top 10 international teams regularly. Apart from England, there are three main teams from Europe that are good in cricket –
Ireland – They’ve been one of the best teams from Europe since a long time and are easily the second best European cricket team after England. In 2019, they became only the second European cricket team to achieve test status. Many of us already know how many times they’ve upset the top teams in the world in World cups & bilateral tournaments.
Netherlands – They’ve been involved in some of the most thrilling t20i matches. They’ve also upset many teams at international level. I believe they’re the third best European cricket nation.
Scotland – They’re a very good team as well. They too have given tough competition to top teams whenever they’ve got chances.
List Top 10 Best Cricket Teams in Europe?
POS | TEAM | MATCHES | POINTS | RATING |
---|---|---|---|---|
2 | England | 39 | 10,117 | 259 |
12 | Ireland | 37 | 7,168 | 194 |
14 | Scotland | 12 | 2,195 | 183 |
15 | Netherlands | 19 | 3,445 | 181 |
21 | Jersey | 13 | 1,718 | 132 |
31 | Germany | 25 | 2,424 | 97 |
34 | Spain | 18 | 1,649 | 92 |
35 | Italy | 12 | 1,094 | 91 |
38 | Denmark | 17 | 1,234 | 73 |
39 | Portugal | 16 | 1,167 | 73 |
10 Best Cricket Teams or Countries in Europe
England
With a commanding second position in the ICC T20 International Team Rankings, England has proven itself to be the best cricket team in Europe.
Under the brilliant leadership of Jos Buttler as captain and with the guidance of coach Matthew Mott, the English team in 2023 has played 39 matches and amassed an impressive 10,117 points, resulting in a commendable rating of 259.
Ireland
Ranked 12th in the ICC T20 International Team Rankings, Ireland has been steadily making strides in the world of T20 cricket. With 37 matches played in 2023 and a total of 7,168 points, the Irish team has earned a rating of 194.
Led by the talented Paul Stirling as captain, and under the mentorship of coach Heinrich Malan, Ireland’s cricketing journey has been nothing short of inspiring.
Scotland
Scotland, ranked 14th in the ICC T20 International Team Rankings, has been a team with immense potential and promise. In 2023, Playing 12 matches and garnering 2,195 points, they hold a rating of 183.
Led by captain Richie Berrington and guided by coach Doug Watson, the Scottish team has showcased their passion for the game and an unwavering desire to excel.
Despite having fewer opportunities on the international stage, Scotland has left a lasting impression with their spirited performances.
Netherlands
Ranked 15th in the ICC T20 International Team Rankings, the Netherlands has been making steady progress in the world of T20 cricket. With 19 matches played in 2023, and with 3,445 points, they have earned a rating of 181.
Led by captain Scott Edwards and guided by coach Ryan Cook, Netherlands has emerged as a competitive team in the shortest format of the game.
Known for their all-round abilities and enterprising brand of cricket, the Netherlands has produced some memorable performances on the international stage.
Jersey
Jersey At the 21st position in the ICC T20 International Team Rankings, Jersey has been making steady progress in the world of T20 cricket. Playing 13 matches and amassing 1,718 points, they hold a rating of 132.
Under the captaincy of Charles Perchard and the guidance of coach Neil MacRae, Jersey’s cricketing journey has been marked by determination and a hunger for success.
A relatively newer team on the international stage, Jersey has showcased their potential and grit in T20 cricket.
Germany
Ranked 31st in the ICC T20 International Team Rankings, Germany has been building its cricketing culture and making strides in the world of T20 cricket. Playing 25 matches and accumulating 2,424 points, they hold a rating of 97.
Led by captain Venkatraman Ganesan and guided by coach Atiq us Zaman, Germany’s cricketing journey has been characterized by determination and a desire to improve.
Spain
Ranked 34th in the ICC T20 International Team Rankings, Spain has been embracing the global appeal of cricket and making strides in the world of T20 cricket. With 18 matches played and 1,649 points, they hold a rating of 92.
Under the captaincy of Christian Munoz-Mills and the guidance of coach Corey Rutgers, Spain’s cricketing journey has been marked by passion and a desire to compete.
Italy
Italy, currently ranked 35th in the ICC T20 International Team Rankings, has been steadily developing its cricketing talent and making significant strides in the world of T20 cricket. Having played 12 matches and accumulated 1,094 points, they hold a respectable rating of 91.
Under the captaincy of Gayashan Munasinghe and the guidance of coach Gareth Berg, Italy’s cricketing journey has been characterized by unwavering perseverance and a strong commitment to growth.
Despite having a relatively smaller cricketing community, Italy has managed to impress on the international stage, showcasing its immense potential and determination to succeed.
Denmark
Currently ranked 39th in the ICC T20 International Team Rankings, Denmark is a cricketing nation that has been earnestly working towards achieving excellence and making steady progress in the world of T20 cricket.
Having participated in 17 matches and earning 1,234 points, they currently hold a rating of 73. Led by captain HAM Shah and guided by coach Keith Dabengwa.
Denmark’s cricketing journey is characterized by a strong sense of dedication and an unwavering desire to compete at the highest level.
Portugal
Ranked 38th in the ICC T20 International Team Rankings, Portugal has been embracing the growth of cricket and making steady strides in the world of T20 cricket. Playing 16 matches and amassing 1,167 points, they hold a rating of 73.
Under the captaincy of Najjam Shahzad and guided by coach Tariq Aziz, Portugal’s cricketing journey has been marked by enthusiasm and a determination to excel.
As cricket gains momentum in Portugal, the team has shown great promise with their performances on the field.
Apart from these, the teams like Belgium, Germany, Luxembourg, Italy etc. are also becoming good teams in t20 formats. So I believe that we can get to see more teams competing well in the future.
Frequently Asked Question
Which is the best cricket team in Europe?
England’s cricket team is the best in Europe.
What is the best cricket team in Europe?
England’s cricket team is the best in Europe.