CRICKET IN IBIZA
The words Ibiza and Cricket for some reason do not always spring to mind however the club was founded over 20 years ago in 1986 by the late Desmond King with Len Hamilton-Smith becoming its first captain. Lens captaincy from 86-91 proved to be very successful, winning numerous trophies including the inaugural Balearic Championship played on home soil in 1990. The late Colin Prior picked up the reigns from Len in the early 90s handing over to Steve Clarke, Tony Copping and Bill Hodges to steer the club through the challenging mid to late 90s. With the turn of the new millennium Julian Cobby became skipper and with his vast contacts injected a little youth and enthusiasm into the club.
Martin Makepeace took over the captaincy in 2006 and it turned into a very successful year for Ibiza Cricket Club.With their season spanning from May to November they managed to play a total of sixteen games this year. These matches included the Balearic Cup against neighbours Mallorca and Menorca and a two match tour of Benidorm to play mainlanders Sporting Alfas.
On the playing front a milestone was achieved with batsman and vice captain Adam Johnson making his international debut for the Spanish national team, thus becoming the first ever player wearing Ibiza colours to represent his country.His batting form throughout the last two years saw him top the batting averages in 2005 with 68.83 and 2006 with 66.57 and with him now assuming some coaching responsibilities the younger talent are getting some great guidance and direction.
Twelve matches are already pencilled in for 2007 with Almondesbury, Springwood and The Old Lincolnians being the confirmed touring teams, alongside the traditional Balearic Cup and the home and away games with Alfas, so it is hoped that Ibiza Cricket will continue on its upward groove and strengthen the position of Spanish Cricket.