The Downside Wanderers dusted off their pads and passports in early May, heading to the magical Ionian island of Corfu.
The touring party ranged from 20-81 years in experience, some tourers being close friends and others meeting for the first time, but all bound by the Gregorian spirit that makes both Downside and the Wanderers so special.
Despite Greece not being famed for its cricket, we found ourselves up against the Hellenic Cricket Federation, a club boasting a 200-year history. Several Greek internationals (of Sri Lankan and Indian descent), proved too strong for a slightly jaded Wanderers side on Saturday… must have been the jet lag. Luckily on Sunday order was restored, on the only cricket pitch in the world set inside a UNESCO heritage site, the Wanderers levelled the scores beating the Atlas XI by 80 runs. Notable performances from Anthony Pontifex (S60) for pulling on his whites aged 81, Will Kirkpatrick (C96) for a commanding 50 not out, and Alex Gilbert (S12) for smashing 5 sixes in an over.
Corfu Town’s tavernas, beaches and bars with tzatzikis, mythos and ouzos plenty were a stunning backdrop and excellent set of ingredients, but it was the wonderful group of OGs that made for a truly memorable tour.
The next Wanderers Tour will be to Menorca in June 2026 – please contact Hugh Jennings (S11) at hepjennings@hotmail.co.uk if you are interested.