Bernard Hedges: The Player from 'Ponty'

The Player From Ponty is the biography of Glamorgan cricketer Bernard Hedges, who scored 17,773 first-class runs and hit Glamorgan's first one-day century in 1963. His son Stephen reveals his journey from Rhydyfelin to his professional career.

\n Format: Paperback / softback
\n Length: 224 pages
\n Publication date: 11 July 2019
\n Publisher: St David's Press
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The Player From Ponty is a captivating biography that delves into the remarkable life of Glamorgan cricketer Bernard Hedges, a talented sportsman hailing from the picturesque valleys of south Wales. Bernard's journey encompasses not only his cricketing prowess but also his involvement in rugby and his representation of a Great Britain side in football.

Born in 1931, Bernard Hedges grew up in a humble family, the eldest of eight children raised in a small council house in Rhydyfelin. Despite the challenges he faced, his passion for sports shone brightly. He excelled in various sports, including rugby, cricket, and football, showcasing his remarkable athleticism and skill.

In his cricketing career, Bernard Hedges played for Glamorgan between 1950 and 1967. During this period, he scored an impressive 17,773 first-class runs, becoming Glamorgan's 7th all-time top run scorer. His achievements were not limited to the first-class arena, as he also made his mark in one-day cricket. In 1963, he scored Glamorgan's first one-day century, against Somerset in the Gillette Cup. This milestone not only showcased his talent but also his adaptability to different formats of the game.

Bernard Hedges was one of only six Glamorgan players to score 2,000 runs in a season. In 1961, he achieved this remarkable feat with an impressive 2,026 runs. His consistency and dedication to the sport were evident in his performances, and he became a widely respected cricketer within the Glamorgan community.

Beyond his cricketing achievements, Bernard Hedges had a passion for rugby. He played for Pontypridd and Swansea, showcasing his versatility and strength on the field. His commitment to the sport earned him recognition and admiration from fans and fellow players alike.

Bernard Hedges' journey from his early days in Rhydyfelin to the local grammar school, his National Service days, and to his professional career with Glamorgan is lovingly revealed by his son Stephen. Stephen shares the story of his father's sporting life, highlighting his grit, determination, and unwavering pursuit of excellence. Bernard's journey is a testament to the power of sports to transform lives and inspire individuals to overcome adversity.

The Player From Ponty is a captivating and inspiring read that showcases the remarkable life of Bernard Hedges. It provides a glimpse into the world of sports, the challenges faced by athletes, and the sacrifices they make to achieve their goals. Bernard Hedges' story is a testament to the power of hard work, dedication, and the pursuit of one's passion. It reminds us that success is not just measured by trophies and accolades but also by the impact we make on others and the memories we create along the way.

\n Weight: 406g\n
Dimension: 170 x 242 x 18 (mm)\n
ISBN-13: 9781902719566\n \n