Greece call up Konstas to aid T20 World Cup bid

Greece have named a 14-man squad for the European sub-regional qualifier to be held in Finland from 14 to 21 August. Among the players is 24-year-old Billy Konstas, the older brother of Australian Test cricketer Sam Konstas. Billy plays grade cricket in Sydney and works as a physiotherapist and cricket coach alongside his playing commitments.

The squad also includes another Greek-Australian, 21-year-old leg-spinning all-rounder Blake Faunce, who has represented Australian Capital Territory at age-group level. The Hellenic Cricket Federation has also held talks with Blake Nikitaras, 26, who has played first-class cricket for New South Wales and in the Big Bash for Sydney Thunder. Nikitaras' father Steve also played professionally and later for Greece.

Another player in discussions is Peter Hatzoglou, 27, who has substantial franchise experience in The Hundred, Big Bash and Pakistan Super League. However, he is not currently eligible for selection. Should Greece progress through the 10-team qualifier, both Nikitaras and Hatzoglou could become available.

Greece's decision to tap into the Australian diaspora — over 400,000 Australians claim Greek ancestry — draws comparisons with Italy, who participated in their maiden T20 World Cup earlier this year with a squad entirely born outside the country. Senior Greek federation figures have told BBC Sport they will exercise caution regarding the integration of Australian-born players.

Greek cricket is largely centred on the island of Corfu, where the sport has been played for over 200 years. About two-thirds of the squad for the Finland qualifier were born in Greece. The party also includes two UK-based players: Dimitrios Triandafillithis and Christodoulos Bogdanos, who play club cricket in Yorkshire.

Greece's path to the T20 World Cup is challenging. They have been drawn in a group with favourites Germany, as well as Portugal. Portugal may be bolstered by former Australia all-rounder Moises Henriques, who was born in Madeira, and opening batter Ricardo Vasconcelos, depending on his Northamptonshire commitments.