Message from the Chairman. Mid District Final 2026

Message from the Chairman – Mid District Final 2026

It is with genuine regret that I write to inform you that Merthyr RFC will be withdrawing from the Mid District Cup Final scheduled for Wednesday 20th May 2026.

This has not been an easy decision, far from it. It follows a long and successful season in which our players and backroom team have given everything to the jersey. Owing to numerous postponements across the season, coupled with a demanding and extended cup run, we now find ourselves still playing rugby deep into the third week of May. While this is testament to the commitment of everyone involved, it also brings with it unavoidable challenges.

At this stage of the season, the combination of playing injuries and limited player availability as we move toward the Whitsun holiday means we are unable to do the competition justice while also safeguarding the wellbeing of our squad. As a club, we have a clear responsibility to protect our players, and on this occasion, fulfilling both the fixture and that duty is simply not possible.

At the end of last week we spoke with representatives of the Mid District to explore alternative arrangements, including the possibility of staging the final as a pre season fixture in August, mirroring the approach taken in Gwent. We fully appreciate, however, that such a change may not be workable for all parties at this stage of the playing calendar, though it may well be a consideration for future seasons.

To the Mid District, we offer our sincere apologies for the inconvenience and disappointment this decision will cause. Most importantly, we apologise to you, our members, supporters and volunteers, who have backed us so passionately throughout the season. Your loyalty and belief in our club have been unwavering, and for that we are deeply grateful.

As we approach a well earned summer break, I want to extend my sincere thanks for everything you have given to Merthyr RFC throughout this season. On behalf of the Club’s Executive, I wish you all a restful and enjoyable off season. I also hope many of you will join us as we come together to celebrate another fantastic campaign at our Annual Dinner and Presentation Night on Friday 29th May 2026. It promises to be a memorable evening as we recognise the achievements, contributions and spirit that make this club so special.

With Saturday therefore marking our final game of the 2025–26 season, I hope you will join us at Pandy Park as we take on Cross Keys RFC. Please help us celebrate the boys’ on field efforts as we lift the Admiral Community Premiership trophy for a second consecutive year.

Thank you once again for everything you do for Merthyr RFC.

Kind regards,

Craig Dummett

Chairman, Merthyr RFC