Defence of Welsh Cup begins with victory over Tondu

After Saturday’s defeat in the league by St Fagans, Usk bounced back with a successful start to retaining their Welsh Cup title.

On a stifling day at the Usk Athletic Club Ground, Neil Perrett won the toss and chose to bat. The top order repaid his faith in this decision, with the openers putting on 107 for the first wicket. However, both Khunal Khanna (40) and Perrett himself (46) fell on this score. Oli James (56) and Mike Jones (54) then picked up the baton adding 101 for the third wicket. James’ half century included 3 fours, and Jones’ 5 fours. Usk’s run rate was excellent throughout and after their 45 overs finished on 266-7. A stiff target for the visitors.

Despite an early wicket, Tondu’s chase got off to a decent start with Donachie and Woolls taking Tondu up to 71 in the 12th over. It was at this stage that the spinners were starting to get some joy. Khanna was the pick of the bowlers, with his leggies taking 4-52. James’ off-spin and Shaun Moore’s seam bowling each picked up a brace of wickets. Tondu kept up with the rate throughout, but constantly lost wickets and were eventually all out in the 38th over for 206, leaving Usk victorious by 60 runs.