MOJEID Ilyas and Michael Clayden became record breakers when they joined forces for Newport CC in the Welsh Cup semi-final.

The pair put on 284 runs off 229 balls in a staggering third-wicket partnership against Sudbrook at Spytty Park, helping their side to a 57-run win.

It is the highest ever partnership in the competition and is Newport's best for the third-wicket, beating the previous high set by stalwart Clayden and former Glamorgan all-rounder Ian Thomas in 2005.

Ilyas smashed 19 fours and three sixes in his 165, which came off 124 balls. Clayden was still there at the end of the innings after a more patient 101 off 112, featuring three fours.

The duo joined forces with the score on 5-2 and helped Newport reach 305-3 off their allotted 40 overs.

That proved too much for Sudbrook despite their own superb third-wicket partnership; Scott O'Leary (83) and James Hussey (73) put on 158 but the visitors were limited to 248-9.

Newport will play either Crumlin or Blackwood in the South East Zone Two final.