Wilf Jones was a left-arm spin bowler who played for Glamorgan between 1929 and 1933.
After some impressive performances for Pontardawe CC during the early years of the South Wales and Monmouthshire League he joined Glamorgan’s junior staff as Frank Ryan’s understudy. Wilf made his first-class debut against the 1929 Springboks at Pontypridd, and two years later took 6/93 against the New Zealanders at the Arms Park.
Wilf subsequently got an extended run in the Glamorgan side when Frank Ryan was released at the end of 1931. However, he lost form and, with wafer-thin finances and Emrys Davies emerging as a useful all-rounder, Glamorgan had to also release Wilf as an economy measure at the end of 1933.
He subsequently enjoyed a decent career as a professional with Pontardawe and Neath. Always dressed in a suit, he cut a dapper figure off the field, tilting his hat to every lady who passed by. He adored etiquette, decorum, respect and fair play besides hating bullying and sledging. His fondness for formal attire meant that he was also very proud of a black top hat, which has remained in the possession of the Jones family and is currently in Rwanda where the father-in-law of Wilfred’s grandson works as a pastor and proudly displays the Welsh flag at his home. His grandson also played county rugby and basketball at junior level for Glamorgan.
JONES, Wilfred Edward
Born – Pontardawe, 2nd February 1912.
Died – Pyle, October 1992.
Best performances for Glamorgan:
In first-class cricket – 27 v Sussex at Cardiff Arms Park, 1931; 6/93 v New Zealanders at Cardiff Arms Park, 1931.
| M | I | NO | RUNS | HS | 100 | 50 | CT | ST | |
| First-class | 50 | 73 | 30 | 300 | 6.97 | – | – | 21 | – |
| Balls | M | R | W | AV | 5wI | 10wM | |
| First-class | 6122 | 202 | 2754 | 77 | 35.76 | 3 | – |