Cricket Witness No 3 - The Daffodil Blooms

70 Restarting and regrouping finances, it would be true to say that Glamorgan had almost a hand-to-mouth existence, so there may be more than a hint of truth in the story, told several times by Phil Clift during his Testimonial functions, about a cricket-loving Methodist minister who regularly asked his congregation who attended his chapel in the Swansea valleys “to say a little prayer on behalf of Glamorgan CCC.” The tale may be apocryphal, but the sentiment of seeking divine assistance was at the heart of so many of the county’s well- meaning followers. It’s not on record whether Johnnie also sought assistance from above, but what is known is that he secured the services of a number of willing helpers, with several men who had played both rugby and cricket alongside the Club’s late and much lamented leader, all eager to lend a hand to ensure that the good work of the 1930s would not go to waste. Austin Matthews, with more than half an eye on the coaching possibilities, agreed to assist with some of the administration. Les Spence, the Cardiff rugby player and businessman, plus G.V.Wynne-Jones, another former rugby player and now a journalist and broadcaster, each helped with a number of match-day tasks as well as some financial matters which needed addressing following the sudden death of George Cording, the Club’s former wicket-keeper and batsman who had been the match secretary during the wartime friendlies. Phil Clift (right) and other Glamorgan players in the nets at the Arms Park in 1948. Allan Watkins is the batsman strapping on his pads.