Increased Entries For 2014 Welsh Cup

Entries for the 2014 Welsh Cup have bucked the trend of recent seasons.  In 2013 Cricket Wales received only 61 entries but is pleased to announce that numbers have increased slightly for 2014 to 66.  Even a net increase of five clubs is enough to give rise to optimism over the future of the competition.  Several clubs who had not entered the competition in recent years have returned to the fold for 2014.

When entries were invited, in late October, clubs declining the invitation were asked to provide reasons.  Easily the most repeated cause of the unwillingness to take part was the reluctance of players to turn out on Sundays.  Other reasons given included the potential for long journeys, especially in early rounds. 

For 2014, the early rounds will be organised in much the same way as in 2013, with efforts being made to keep travelling times to a minimum as far as possible.  Seven ties were conceded last year and in an effort to reduce this figure even more, the first round proper will not be played until Sunday June 1st, although there will be handful of preliminary ties to be played before that date in order to reduce the 65 to four groups each with a maximum of 16 teams by June 1st.

There are still a few details to be completed, although it is expected that the final will be played on Sunday, August 31st, at The Gnoll, home of Neath Cricket Club. Unfortunately, the sponsor for the previous eight seasons, Gwalia Housing Group, has decided not to continue with its sponsorship. At the time of writing, an alternative sponsor has not been recruited.

If clubs still wish to join the competition, it is not too late, as the draw has not yet been completed (early January).