Following Ystrad Rhondda RFC’s trip to Cross Keys RFC on 29th April, scrum-half Keian Richards brought up his 50th appearance for the club — all achieved in the Welsh Premiership.

Since arriving at Ystrad, “Trig” has become a popular figure within the squad, known for his energy around the group, sharp service at scrum-half and, according to some teammates, regular contributions to the fines pot ?

We caught up with Keian to reflect on reaching the milestone.

Keian Richards — 50th Appearance Interview

Q) Trig, congratulations on reaching 50 appearances for Ystrad Rhondda, all of which have come in the Welsh Premiership. It must have been a proud moment?

KR: Absolutely. It’s a massive honour to reach 50 appearances for the club. I’ve enjoyed every minute representing Ystrad Rhondda, and it means a lot to play alongside such a great group of boys and in front of the supporters week in, week out.

Q) You’ve been in the squad for the past two seasons. Rumours have it that you’re the most fined player in recent times. How do you plead?

KR: Definitely think my fines have been exaggerated. I’d say a few of the boys are trying to protect their own by throwing my name around.

I won’t deny I’ve contributed a fair amount to the fines pot over the last two seasons, but at least Lewis Williams has a new pair of boots for next year ?

Q) A bittersweet evening in Cross Keys last week — achieving our objective of staying in the division, but losing the game with the last play. What were your reflections on the game and the performance?

KR: It was definitely mixed emotions afterwards. The main goal was always to secure our place in the Premiership, so there was relief in achieving that.

At the same time, losing with the final play is tough to take. I thought the boys put in a huge effort and showed our supporters how we can play.

Q) Looking back on your time with Ystrad so far, what have been your standout moments? Are there any games in particular that stick in your mind?

KR: One game that really stands out was when we played Ponty at home. We went into the game as underdogs, but the way we performed — especially scoring five tries in the first half — showed exactly what this group is capable of.

The atmosphere around the club that day was brilliant, and it proved that we can compete at this level.

Half Century for Trig

Everyone at Ystrad Rhondda RFC congratulates Keian on reaching 50 appearances for the club and thanks him for his contribution over the past two seasons.

Here’s to many more appearances in Ystrad colours.