Southern Crusaders CC

Southern Crusaders CC, a cricket team from Malta, finds its roots in the burgeoning cricket culture of the island nation. Established in the late 2000s, this team has become a pillar in Maltese cricket, representing a blend of passion and regional pride. Cricket in Malta might not command the same global attention as in other countries, but for teams like the Southern Crusaders, the sport is nothing short of a lifeline, knitting together diverse communities and traditions.

Among their proudest moments, the Crusaders' consistent performances in local championships stand out. They have frequently been contenders in the Malta Cricket Association Premier League, demonstrating both resilience and tactical acumen. Though the silverware cabinet might not be overflowing, the team has made significant strides in putting Maltese cricket on the map through both collective and individual brilliance.

Key players have been instrumental in this journey. One such figure is JM Patel, a skilful all-rounder whose performances with both bat and ball often turn the tide for the Crusaders. Another stalwart is S Vanmali, known for his strategic acumen on the field. Their contributions, alongside others, have been crucial in not just clinching victories but also in cultivating a robust team ethos.

Rivalries are part and parcel of any sport, and for the Southern Crusaders, competing against teams like Marsa CC and Knights CC sparks intense local passion. These matches often transform into thrilling spectacles, inviting the local cricket enthusiasts to engage with zeal and fervour.

The Southern Crusaders are known for their disciplined yet aggressive playing style. Unlike some of the flamboyant teams, they rely on well-planned strategies and adaptability. Their strength lies in exploiting the home conditions at the Marsa Sports Club, which doubles up as their fortress and the heart of Maltese cricket. The ground, with its charming yet modest stands, provides an inviting atmosphere for fans who bring an infectious enthusiasm, often engaging in friendly banter and raucous cheering.

While the Southern Crusaders might not carry the prestige of larger cricketing establishments, they imbue a unique cultural significance by keeping cricket alive and thriving in Malta. Representing a multicultural squad, the team serves as a testament to the spirit of cricket as a global unifier and stands as a beacon of sporting camaraderie in the region.

Play Offs, Semi Final, European Cricket Series Malta - February 18, 2025

Swieqi United

90/0 (6.1)

Southern Crusaders CC

87/8 (10)

Swieqi United won by 10 wickets (with 23 balls remaining)

Player of the Match

Jaspal Singh

Group A, 30th Match, European Cricket Series Malta - February 15, 2025

Victoria Lions

92/6 (10)

Southern Crusaders CC

123/8 (10)

Southern Crusaders CC won by 31 runs

Player of the Match

Jagadeesh Sreenath

Group A, 29th Match, European Cricket Series Malta - February 15, 2025

Victoria Lions

49/9 (10)

Southern Crusaders CC

53/1 (4.5)

Southern Crusaders CC won by 9 wickets (with 31 balls remaining)

Player of the Match

Gulfraz Masih

Group A, 22nd Match, European Cricket Series Malta - February 13, 2025

Southern Crusaders CC

106/4 (10)

Gzira United

85/7 (10)

Southern Crusaders CC won by 21 runs

Player of the Match

Gopal Thakur

Group A, 21st Match, European Cricket Series Malta - February 13, 2025

Southern Crusaders CC

71/7 (10)

Gzira United

69/9 (10)

Southern Crusaders CC won by 2 runs

Player of the Match

Vinith Vidurshan

Group A, 6th Match, European Cricket Series Malta - February 9, 2025

Hamrun Stallions

Southern Crusaders CC

Match abandoned without a ball bowled

Group A, 5th Match, European Cricket Series Malta - February 9, 2025

Hamrun Stallions

Southern Crusaders CC

Match abandoned without a ball bowled

Group A, 2nd Match, European Cricket Series Malta - February 8, 2025

American University of Malta

Southern Crusaders CC

Match abandoned without a ball bowled

Group A, 1st Match, European Cricket Series Malta - February 8, 2025

American University of Malta

Southern Crusaders CC

Match abandoned without a ball bowled

Play Offs, Semi Final, European Cricket Series Malta - November 17, 2024

Southern Crusaders CC

126/8 (10)

Msida Warriors CC

177/0 (10)

Msida Warriors CC won by 51 runs

Player of the Match

Rockey Dianish

Michael Goonetilleke
Position: Batsman
Batting Style: Right Hand Bat
Bowling Style:
Age: 40

Jagath Poorna
Position: Bowler
Batting Style: Right Hand Bat
Bowling Style: Slow Left Arm Orthodox
Age: 30

Mithila Avishka
Position: Allrounder
Batting Style: Right Hand Bat
Bowling Style: Right Arm Fast
Age: 27

Gopal Thakur
Position: Wicketkeeper
Batting Style: Right Hand Bat
Bowling Style: Right Arm Fast Medium
Age: 31

Gulfraz Masih
Position: Bowler
Batting Style: Right Hand Bat
Bowling Style: Right Arm Fast Medium
Age: 32

Vinith Vidurshan
Position: Allrounder
Batting Style: Right Hand Bat
Bowling Style: Right Arm Fast
Age: 27

Manodya Madubashana
Position: Allrounder
Batting Style: Right Hand Bat
Bowling Style: Slow Left Arm Orthodox
Age: 20

Eardley Chandiram
Position: Bowler
Batting Style: Right Hand Bat
Bowling Style: Right Arm Fast Medium
Age: 35

Akhildev Radhakrishnan
Position: Allrounder
Batting Style: Right Hand Bat
Bowling Style: Right Arm Fast Medium
Age: 30

Shahin Hussain
Position: Wicketkeeper
Batting Style: Right Hand Bat
Bowling Style: Right Arm Fast
Age: 30

Sahan Nanayakkara
Position: Bowler
Batting Style: Right Hand Bat
Bowling Style: Right Arm Fast
Age: 32

Abburi Kumar
Position: Allrounder
Batting Style: Right Hand Bat
Bowling Style: Right Arm Fast Medium
Age: 41

Ryan Bastiansz
Position: Wicketkeeper
Batting Style: Left Hand Bat
Bowling Style:
Age: 39

Abdul Rahman
Position: Batsman
Batting Style: Right Hand Bat
Bowling Style:
Age: 27

Rohana Deheragoda
Position: Bowler
Batting Style: Right Hand Bat
Bowling Style: Right Arm Fast Medium
Age: 42

Marsa Sports Club
City: Malta
Country: Malta