ST PETER PORT — The cricketing rivalry between the Channel Islands is set for its most significant chapter yet, as Jersey and Guernsey have been drawn together in the same group for the first round of qualifying for the 2028 ICC Men's T20 World Cup. The announcement, made by the International Cricket Council (ICC) as part of the pathway structure for the expanded 20-team tournament, guarantees at least one historic clash between the neighbours, with the potential for a second if both progress.
The qualifying structure sees 12 European Associate nations divided into two sub-regional groups. Jersey and Guernsey will compete in the Europe Sub-Regional Qualifier A, scheduled for late 2025, alongside traditional rivals like Italy and Germany, as well as France, Sweden, and the Czech Republic. Only the top two teams from this group will advance to the next stage, the Europe Regional Final, making every match, but particularly the intra-island derby, a high-stakes affair.
A Rivalry Steeped in History
The "Cricket Classic" between Jersey and Guernsey is one of the oldest sporting contests in the world, first played in 1957. Played annually for the "Coronation Cup," the fixture is a highlight of the domestic calendar, often drawing large crowds and fierce but friendly competition. However, the stakes have never been as high as they will be in the T20 World Cup qualifier. "This is the one everyone looks for when the draw comes out," said a spokesperson for Cricket Guernsey. "To have it within a World Cup pathway adds a whole new layer of intensity and meaning."
In recent years, Jersey has held a slight upper hand in T20 internationals, boasting a higher ICC ranking and more experience on the global Associate stage. They famously defeated a Full Member nation, Ireland, in a warm-up match ahead of the 2021 T20 World Cup. Guernsey, however, has shown remarkable growth, with a talented young squad capable of upsetting the established order. The head-to-head record in official T20Is is tightly contested, adding to the anticipation.
The Pathway to the 2028 World Cup
The road to the 2028 tournament, likely to be co-hosted by Namibia and Zimbabwe, is long and arduous for Associate nations. The Europe Sub-Regional Qualifier is just the first step. The two qualifiers from Jersey and Guernsey's group will then join the top two from Sub-Regional Qualifier B (featuring Denmark, Norway, Spain, Austria, Belgium, Hungary, Isle of Man, and Portugal) in a Europe Regional Final in 2026. From that final tournament, only one or two teams will earn a spot in the global qualifier, where the final World Cup berths are decided.
This makes the sub-regional stage critically important. Dropping points, especially in a derby match, could be catastrophic to a team's ambitions. The pressure will be immense on players who are typically amateurs balancing cricket with full-time careers. Jersey captain Chuggy Perchard acknowledged the challenge, stating, "Every match in this group is a final. The derby is always special, but with World Cup points on the line, we'll need to manage emotions and focus on executing our plans."
Key Players to Watch
Both squads feature a blend of experienced campaigners and exciting new talent. For Jersey, the core likely revolves around all-rounders like Perchard and Ben Stevens, with the explosive batting of Nick Greenwood and the left-arm spin of Elliot Miles providing key threats. Guernsey will look to their own seasoned leaders, such as batsman Luke Le Tissier and seamer Luke Bichard, while young talents like wicketkeeper-batter Ben Fitchet represent the island's bright future.
The tactical battle will be fascinating. Jersey's strength often lies in a disciplined, professional approach honed through regular competition in English domestic county circuits. Guernsey's potential lies in their fearless, attacking brand of cricket. The conditions at the likely neutral European venue will also play a crucial role, with both teams having experience on a variety of surfaces.
More Than Just a Game
For the Channel Islands, this qualifier represents more than just a chance at World Cup glory. It is a monumental opportunity to showcase Associate cricket and inspire the next generation. Cricket has grown significantly in both jurisdictions, with strong junior programs and increasing participation. A successful run in a World Cup pathway, broadcast globally, would provide an immeasurable boost to the sport's profile. "This is our chance to put Channel Islands cricket on the map in a huge way," said a Jersey Cricket Board official.
The logistical and financial challenges for Associate nations are significant. Funding tours and preparations for these qualifiers requires immense effort from volunteers and administrators. However, the dream of reaching a World Cup provides powerful motivation. The prospect of one Channel Island team potentially eliminating the other is a bittersweet narrative, but it guarantees that European cricket will witness one of its most passionate contests.
As the 2025 qualifier approaches, anticipation will build. Local fans are already discussing travel plans to support their teams on the continent. The match will be a celebration of the rich cricketing culture shared by the islands, but for 40 overs on the field, friendship will be set aside. The implications are clear, as summed up by a Guernsey player: "We love playing Jersey, we respect them hugely, but we want to go to a World Cup. And if they're in our way, we have to find a way through."
The draw has set the stage for a classic. Whether it's in Belgium, Spain, or elsewhere in Europe, the day Jersey and Guernsey meet in the 2028 T20 World Cup Sub-Regional Qualifier will be a historic moment for both islands, a testament to their cricketing progress, and a dramatic, high-pressure showdown where local bragging rights are intertwined with the ultimate dream of global qualification.