South Australia triumphed over Victoria by six wickets at the Junction Oval on March 9, 2025, securing their first Sheffield Shield final at home since 2016. The remarkable achievement was bolstered by Jake Lehmann's unbeaten century and Liam Scott's career-best performance, leading their team’s chase of 300 runs.
After struggling initially, South Australia dug deep when they found themselves at 108 for 4. During this tense moment, Lehmann and Scott united to forge what would become the match-defining partnership, amassing 148 runs and breaking the back of the chase.
Lehmann finished with 105 not out, credited as one of his finest innings. He shared his excitement post-match, stating, "I feel like anytime you get a hundred and it's in a winning team, and fourth innings is probably the hardest time to make hundreds these days, so yes, definitely up there," according to ESPNcricinfo. Lehmann’s milestone also included surpassing 5000 career first-class runs, marking another high point for the batsman.
Coach Ryan Harris praised both Lehmann and Scott's contributions. "I think his niche is probably No. 6 in this current setup, and his overs show he’s progressed beautifully because of game time and learning his role both as a player and as a person," Harris said of Scott.
Scott not only starred with his bat, scoring 83 runs, but also showcased his bowling prowess with figures of 4 for 49 on day three of the four-day match. He had recently fought off scrutiny and delivered under pressure, catching the attention of his coach.
On the opposing end, Victoria and their coach Chris Rogers felt the sting of disappointment after losing for the fourth consecutive match, particularly painful considering they had once held firm control with leads of 163 and eight wickets still intact. Rogers expressed the mounting frustration: "We feel like all the games we're right in the contest, but then we just can't get over the line. That probably is the biggest frustration."
Victoria's innings included standout performances from Campbell Kellaway, who scored 79 runs across two innings, and Sam Thornton, who recorded impressive bowling figures of 4 for 42. Despite showing promise, Victoria struggled to handle the consistent pressure applied by South Australia during the game.
While South Australia secured their place at the top of the table, their victory brings them closer to another aim—the Sheffield Shield final. Discussions have emerged about hosting this anticipated match at the prestigious Adelaide Oval, as South Australia confirmed their hosting rights, leading to excitement among players and management alike.
Ryan Harris expressed enthusiasm about the potential move to Adelaide Oval, stating, "We want to play there. We love it there.” The upcoming matches, including the final scheduled for March 26 to March 30, have prompted conversations with South Australia’s Premier Peter Malinauskas, who is optimistic about accommodating the venue requirements.
Malinauskas confirmed he has spoken with local AFL clubs to search for solutions, aiming for collaboration to enable the Shield final to take place at Adelaide Oval, which hasn't hosted one since 1996. The date adjustments may see the match shifted forward two days to fit the schedules around the AFL season's kickoff.
Adelaide Oval is set to hold its first AFL games on March 16; both local clubs, the Adelaide Crows and Port Adelaide, have upcoming matches, complicate logistics slightly. Experts suggest, though, arranging for drop-in pitches could be feasible following the completion of the AFL games later this month.
AFL Chief Executive Andrew Dillon has indicated the league's willingness to cooperate, expressing openness to scheduling adjustments, which could allow for the Shield final to be played at the prestigious venue. This potential collaboration reflects the multifaceted nature of sports scheduling within shared venues.
Lehmann, Alex Carey, and Travis Head are the only current South Australian players who previously played on the last Shield final. Lehmann expressed his hopes for the match venue: "I love Adelaide Oval. I think it’s the best stadium in the world, just produces good wickets and great cricket.”
Meanwhile, Alex Carey will be available for both the final Shield game against Queensland and the final if South Australia progresses. Travis Head, committed to the IPL with Sunrisers Hyderabad, is on standby as anticipated plans clash with these exciting final phases of the Shield tournament.
With the good form of the players and enthusiasm for potentially hosting the final, South Australians hope to see the city-style showdown instill pride not just for the players but for their passionate fans. The chase successfully exemplified the determination of the players, setting the tone for what lies ahead.
For now, the spotlight turns to South Australia as they optimistically prepare for their final home-venue match and look forward to making history at Adelaide Oval.