Spain Cricket Team: How They’re Growing and What’s Coming Up
If you’ve been following cricket beyond the usual powerhouses, you’ve probably noticed Spain making noise in the European scene. The Spain cricket team is a relatively new side, but they’re punching above their weight thanks to steady investment, local talent, and a few overseas pros.
Spain became an Associate Member of the International Cricket Council (ICC) in 2017. That move opened doors to official tournaments, funding, and a clear path to climb the rankings. Since then, the board has focused on grassroots programs, school outreach, and a semi‑professional domestic league that feeds the national side.
Recent Performances
In the last two years, Spain has played in the ICC Europe Division 2 and the T10 European Championships. Their most notable win came against Italy in the 2023 European Qualifier, where they chased 150 with three wickets to spare. The win sparked a surge in local interest and helped them finish third in the tournament, just missing out on the ICC World Cup Qualifier.
When you look at stats, the team’s batting average has risen from 18.5 in 2021 to 24.3 in 2024. That jump reflects better technique work and more exposure to faster pitches during tours in the UK. Bowling has also improved – the spinners have become more disciplined, keeping economy rates under 6 runs per over in recent matches.
Off the field, the Spanish Cricket Federation (Fedecé) has partnered with clubs in Barcelona, Madrid, and Valencia to host weekly training camps. Those camps bring in coaches from England and Australia, giving local players a taste of professional standards.
Key Players to Watch
While the squad includes a mix of expats, a few home‑grown names are standing out. Juan Carlos García, a right‑hand bat from Seville, scored a blazing 78 against Belgium last summer. His ability to rotate the strike and finish strong makes him a reliable middle‑order anchor.
On the bowling side, Rohan Patel, an Indian‑born fast bowler based in Madrid, leads the pace attack. His 4/22 against Denmark was a turning point in the match and earned him a spot in the ICC T20I XI of the week.
All‑rounder María López is another exciting talent. She fields at point, bowls left‑arm orthodox spin, and can swing the bat when needed. Her versatility gives the captain more options, especially in tight games.
If you’re wondering who’s likely to make the squad for the upcoming European T20 Qualifier, keep an eye on these three, plus emerging youngster Alejandro Fernández, who’s been dominating the junior leagues with a 50+ average.
To follow the Spain cricket team, check the Fedecé website for match dates and streaming links. Their next fixture is against Portugal in early October, a game that could boost them into the top‑four of the European rankings.
In short, Spain’s cricket journey is still in its early chapters, but the combination of better coaching, a growing domestic league, and passionate players is setting the stage for bigger things. Whether you’re a casual fan or a die‑hard follower, the Spain cricket team is worth keeping on your radar.