May 25, 26 v Surrey 2nd XI at The Oval – Match Drawn
June 18, 19 v Herefordshire at Widemarsh Common, Hereford – Won by an innings and 58 runs
July 13, 14 v Worcestershire Club & Ground at Cardiff Arms Park – Lost by 9 wickets
July 17, 18 v Surrey 2nd XI at Cardiff Arms Park – Lost by an innings and 138 runs
July 22, 23 v MCC and Ground at Cardiff Arms Park – Lost by an innings by 63 runs
July 27, 28 v Monmouthshire at Rodney Parade, Newport – Won by 2 wickets
Aug 7, 8 v MCC and Ground at Lord`s – Lost by 291 runs
Aug 13,14 v Herefordshire at Cardiff Arms Park – Won by 6 wickets
Aug 24, 25 v Monmouthshire at Cardiff Arms Park – Match Drawn
1896 was a pivotal season in the transformation of Glamorgan from a third-class county to a fully- fledged Minor County, with Jack Brain arranging additional friendlies against Worcestershire and Surrey 2nd XI. Each were a useful yardstick against which the Welsh county could assess their talent, although the games against Surrey saw a draw at The Oval and an innings defeat at the Arms Park.
The contest with Worcestershire also ended in a nine-wicket defeat but Jack held true to his principles that the club’s form and finances would only improve if they played regularly at a higher level. His belief in speculating to accumulate was boosted by an innings victory in the away match with Herefordshire plus a thrilling two-wicket success against Monmouthshire at Rodney Parade.
This victory epitomized the new spirit within the Glamorgan side, as well as showcasing the batting abilities of Billy Bancroft. After being set a target of 211, and losing five quick wickets, the Swansea professional led a counter-attack and struck a superb 119 to see the Welsh county to victory.
