🏏 Farewell to an Iconic Swansea Cricket Venue! 🏟️
After around 150 years, the legendary St Helen’s ground in Swansea has hosted its last cricket match. The final game, a dramatic showdown between Swansea Cricket Club’s second team and Pontardawe Cricket Club, wrapped up on a blustery August evening when a young cricketer, Jacob Protheroe, was hit for a boundary by veteran Owen Barton, sealing the win for Pontardawe. This bittersweet ending also happened to coincide with the anniversary of Sir Garfield Sobers’ incredible feat of hitting six sixes in one over at St Helen’s—an event still etched in cricket history.
With the iconic ground set to become a rugby-only venue for the Ospreys, the final day was a melting pot of emotions for many, including Swansea Cricket Club’s vice-chairman, Steve Davies. He, too, felt the weight of history as the curtain fell on this cherished venue that had seen both sporting triumphs and heartaches.
Alan Jones, a Glamorgan legend with over 36,000 first-class runs, reminisced about some remarkable innings at St Helen’s, including rubicon moments like Sobers’ innings and other historic matches.
The ground’s transformation into a rugby facility means Swansea Cricket Club will now move to a newly upgraded spot in Sketty. Though the end of an era is hard to swallow, club members, like Steve Davies, are optimistic about the exciting new chapter. He envisions a bright future just a short distance away.
This swansong was not just about cricket; it rekindled stories of love, passion, and unwavering loyalty. Former players and supporters shared memories of legendary matches and the camaraderie that made St Helen’s more than just a cricket ground.
While we bid adieu to cricket at St Helen’s, its legacy and spirit will live on, cherished by all who were lucky enough to witness the magic unfold over the decades. 🌟