They also competed in the ECC Trophy in 2001, 2003 but failed to achieve results they were capable of and finished just off the bottom of the ladder on both occasions.

This time they were better prepared and organised, and despite a number of injuries went through the tournament undefeated after narrowly beating Spain (by 4 runs) in a thrilling final – to earn the right to play against Israel for a place in the dizzy heights of Division 2.

In another close finish the team beat Israel by 5 runs in Tel Aviv in November to earn a spot in Division 2, which was played in Guernsey in 2008.

Croatia narrowly defeated Israel by 5 runs in Tel Aviv in November 2007 in a play-off match for the sixth place in the European Division 2 Championship.

In October 2009 Croatia and Israel met again for a play-off match to decide who will fill the sixth spot in the ICC Europe Division 2 Championship to be played in 2010.

Croatia recorded victories over Slovakia and Carmel but lost in the semi-finals to eventual winners Estonia, to finish in fourth spot.

This time team beat Bulgaria but lost to the Isle of Alderney and Russia in the group stage to be relegated to the 'Plate' competition.

Victories against Hungary in the semi-final and New Victoria CC in the Plate final gave the team its first silverware.