Indian expats in Germany often wonder how to continue their passion for cricket when far from their home country. In this guide (primarily for Indians), cricket in Germany is explained in detail – so if you came, say, from Delhi to Berlin, you'll get back on the pitch in no time.
A brief history of cricket in Germany
How to play cricket in Germany
Local cricket clubs
Follow cricket events
A brief history of cricket in Germany
Cricket in Germany has a longer history than many might expect, dating back to the early 19th century. However, it's in recent decades that the sport has seen significant growth, largely thanks to the influx of immigrants from India and some other cricket-loving nations. Cricket matches in Germany were first recorded around the 1850s, but it was not until 1988 that Germany became an affiliate member of the ICC (International Cricket Council).
Indian expats in Germany have played a crucial role in the rise of cricket in th/e country. As more Indians moved to Germany for work and study, they brought their love for the game. This led to the formation of new cricket clubs in Germany, increased participation, and a growing interest in the sport among both expats and locals.
How to play cricket in Germany
Follow the steps below to join your local cricket community. By the way, if you want to feel more confident when meeting new people, our article about learning German is just what you need.
Research local clubs: Start by searching online for cricket clubs in your area. Websites like Cricket Germany and CricHeroes can be helpful resources.
Join social media groups: Look for Facebook groups or WhatsApp chats dedicated to cricket in your city. These can be great sources of information and connections.
Reach out to clubs: Once you've found a club that interests you, contact them via email or social media. Many clubs are eager to welcome new players, especially those who feel confident on the pitch. If you have experience with cricket coaching, don't forget to mention it!
Attend a practice session: Most clubs will invite you to attend a practice session. This is a great opportunity to meet the team, take a look at the cricket coaching in the club and showcase your skills.
Register with the club: If you decide to join, you'll need to register with the club and pay any necessary fees.
Get involved in local tournaments: Many cities organise cricket tournaments for expats and locals alike. Participating in these can be a great way to improve your skills and expand your network.
Consider joining a league: For more serious players, consider joining a league team. The Deutsche Cricket Bund (DCB) organises various leagues across the country.
Local cricket clubs in Germany
While there are numerous cricket clubs across Germany, here are a few notable ones:
Munich Cricket Club: One of the oldest and most established clubs in Germany, founded in 1982.
Berlin Cricket Club: A diverse club with players from various nationalities, reflecting Berlin's international character.
Frankfurt Cricket Club: Known for its strong youth program and community engagement.
Cologne Cricket Club: A rapidly growing club with multiple teams participating in various leagues.
Hamburg Cricket Club: One of the northernmost cricket clubs in Germany, with a rich history dating back to 1869.
These clubs not only offer opportunities to play cricket in Germany but also serve as cultural hubs for expats, helping them connect with fellow cricket enthusiasts and build a sense of community in their new home.
Remember, playing cricket in Germany might require some adaptation. The weather can be unpredictable, and finding proper cricket grounds can be challenging. However, with persistence and passion, you'll find that playing cricket in Germany can be just as exciting and fulfilling as back home in India.
How Indian expats in Germany may follow cricket events
For Indians, cricket is often similar to football for Germans. Even though the two nations may seem to have certain differences, they share the same attitudes to their so-called 'national sports'. Expats in Germany keep an eye on the news about the Indian cricket team, not to mention the matches. If you are not an avid player, you may still be involved in the sport as a big fan of the Indian cricket team. Make sure to check out the online broadcasting platforms that are available for Indian expats in Germany – here are the ones you may save in your bookmarks:
• Zee,
• YuppTV.
Don't forget to stay in touch with your local community: with fellow expats, you may support the Indian cricket team in good company – and make new friends who share your passion for the sport.
And if you still feel homesick and miss discussing the current cricket matches with your friends and family, consider using our transfer service. We are always ready to assist you with money transfers to India, be it a small gift for a friend or regular support for your parents. With our euro-to-rupee exchange rate and fixed fee, you will surely save money on transfers to India and feel as if you got your best score.
