On March 1, 2025, South Australia will take on Victoria at the Adelaide Oval for the Marsh One-Day Cup final, significantly named after the late cricketing legend Dean Jones. Both teams are eager to lift the inaugural Dean Jones Trophy, which adds additional importance to the clash, highlighting Jones's monumental impact on Australian cricket.
South Australia's captain Nathan McSweeney expressed the team's determination to end their long trophy drought, stating, "It would be special if we could do it. Our preparation this week has been elite, so hopefully it translates to some good performances." The last time South Australia claimed the One-Day Cup was during the 2011-12 season, where they controversially took home the trophy after tying with Tasmania but securing victory due to their superior standings during the preliminary rounds.
McSweeney is well aware of the significance of the match. "We all know it has been a long time since we have been able to win something," he remarked, aiming to clinch victory against their strong competitors, Victoria.
The match will feature some of the brightest talents from each squad. South Australia's Mackenzie Harvey, who was previously contracted with Victoria, has made waves throughout the tournament, having topped the run-scorer's list with 311 runs at an impressive average of 62.20. "He has been elite for us," McSweeney highlighted, showcasing Harvey's ability to perform exceptionally against his former teammates.
Victoria's captain Will Sutherland is equally eager to grab the trophy, emphasizing, "The man himself, Dean Jones, played a lot for Victoria and did so much for Victorian cricket. It’s sad Dean has passed away, but it just makes it extra special to play for this trophy. We aim to connect with past players and honor their legacy during the game.”
The match is set against the backdrop of both teams having decent runs through the initial rounds of the competition. South Australia finished with 21 points from their seven games, showcasing their strong domestic form, including three bonus point victories. Victoria, on the other hand, secured their spot in the final after defeating New South Wales convincingly, edging them on 18 points.
Fans are particularly excited about the awards ceremony, where the Michael Bevan Medal will be awarded to the player of the match for the first time. This accolade commemorates another cricketing legend, known for his extraordinary finishing skills and remarkable achievements during both domestic and international ODIs.
Bevan solidified his legacy by contributing significantly to the one-day format of the game, boasting 6,912 runs for Australia at an astonishing average of 53.58, making him one of the top finishers the sport has ever witnessed.
Bevan’s influence on the game continues to resonate among current players. Sutherland acknowledges, "His legacy is something we hope to emulate, not just for the game but also for cricket as part of our culture.”
The match on Saturday is being awaited with great anticipation, as it marks everyone's chance to witness history being made with the first Dean Jones Trophy being contested. Victorian players are attempting to channel their respect for Jones's legacy, aiming to perform at their peak against South Australia.
Given the palpable excitement, there is no doubt this final will not only showcase the best of Australian cricket but also honor the legendary figures of the sport, like Dean Jones and Michael Bevan. Both teams are gearing up for a display of skill, strategy, and sportsmanship as they step onto the field at 8:30 AM, with hope and determination driving them toward victory.
McSweeney, reflecting on the importance of this title, concludes, "This year the positive thing about our side is everyone has stood up at various points.” The stage is set for what promises to be a thrilling contest at Adelaide Oval. Will South Australia finally break their trophy drought, or will Victoria emerge victorious, bringing the legacy of Dean Jones back to the forefront of their cricketing achievements? Only time will tell as fans flock to witness the spectacular showdown.