18th September 2025
| Laura Goode
Now in its nineth year, the Swansea Building Society Cohesion Cup continues to be a shining example of how sport can unite communities, celebrate diversity, and build meaningful connections across South Wales. Originally launched in 2017 as the Cardiff Community Cricket Cup, the tournament has since grown into a much-anticipated annual event that brings together teams representing a wide range of heritages from Cardiff and Swansea. At its heart, the Cohesion Cup is about about creating a shared space for respect, engagement, and inclusion through sport.
Played during the summer months on the beautiful pitches surrounding Sophia Gardens, the Cohesion Cup is the result of a collaborative effort between Glamorgan Cricket, Cricket Wales, Swansea Building Society, and South Wales Police, with additional support from Cardiff Council. Matches are supported by the South Wales Police Community Team, who regularly attend fixtures and engage with players and spectators alike, reinforcing the tournament's broader aims of community cohesion and positive relationships.
This year’s competition culminated in a thrilling conclusion as Cardiff Ceylon CC progressed to face the Glamorgan Invitational XI in the tournament final. However, due to heavy rain in September, the final was moved indoors and played on Wednesday, 17th September. The indoor format delivered an exciting and fast-paced finale, with the Glamorgan Invitational XI emerging as the tournament winners.
The success of the tournament owes much to the hard work and commitment of its organisers and volunteers. Special thanks go to Awais Choudhary, the tournament organiser, whose dedication ensured the smooth running of every stage. Gratitude is extended to umpires Stuart Silezin and Colin Spain, and scorers Kevin Probert and Jo Holley, for their invaluable contributions throughout the competition.
The final also featured presentations from key community leaders, including Mark Frost (Community Manager, Glamorgan Cricket), Chief Inspector Rya Cowan Davies (South Wales Police), and Richard Miles (Swansea Building Society), highlighting the collaborative spirit and shared commitment to building bridges through cricket.
The Cohesion Cup continues to grow in stature and significance each year bringing together communities, promoting diversity, and showing how cricket can be a powerful force for good.
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