Established European cricket nations Scotland, Ireland and the Netherlands once again made significant increases in the latest ICC participation rate survey.

Scotland (28,001), increased it's playing stocks by 2,525. Ireland jumped up to 16,765 with a gain of 4,443 and the Netherlands added 5,226 to go to 10,601, mainly via the junior involvement/introductory category.

Italy, Jersey, Norway and Switzerland also showed a gain.

Germany, who introduced the sport to over 10,000 children in 2007, took the foot off the pedal somewhat in 2008, with just 974 newcomers for a playing total in 2008 of 1,979.

Finland lead the way for the European Affiliates with a combined total of 1,694 players.

Total playing numbers (All Categories)

1. Scotland 28,001
2. Ireland 16,765
3. Netherlands 10,601
4. Denmark 6,855
5. Italy 6,084
6. Guernsey 4,935
7. Jersey 3,980
8. France 2,931
9. Germany 1,979
10. Belgium 1,794
11. Gibraltar 1,745
12. Finland 1,694
13. Isle of Man 1,303
14. Israel 1,215
15. Austria 1,176
16. Switzerland 1,105
17. Slovenia 1,073
18. Spain 998
19. Norway 905
20. Bulgaria 513
21. Greece 495
22. Cyprus 390
23. Czech Republic 305
24. Malta 290
25. Sweden 195
26. Croatia 171
27. Portugal 155
28. Luxembourg 130

Top 10 increases by percentage

1. Norway 125%
2. Netherlands 108%
3. Ireland 36%
4. Switzerland 35%
5. Italy 28%
6. Portugal 24%
7. Cyprus 13%
8. = Austria 11%
8. = Jersey 11%
8. = Spain 11%