Legislative Council - Fifty-Fifth Parliament, First Session (55-1)
2025-04-30 Daily Xml

Contents

Motions

South Australian Cricket Team

The Hon. R.P. WORTLEY (15:56): I move:

That this council—

1. Congratulates the South Australian Cricket Team on winning the 2024-25 Sheffield Shield;

2. Notes the win is South Australia’s first in almost 30 years;

3. Acknowledges the historic nature of South Australia’s double trophy after also winning the state’s first One-Day Cup in 13 years;

4. Recognises the exceptional effort and performance of the entire squad; and

5. Acknowledges the efforts of the state government, Adelaide City Council and the South Australian Cricket Association in transforming Karen Rolton oval, doubling its capacity for the event.

I offer my congratulations to the South Australian men's cricket team on an incredible season, one that will be etched into the sporting history of our state. After nearly three decades, South Australians have brought the Sheffield Shield home once again. That is no small feat; our last win was back in the 1995-96 season, and for many South Australians this is the first time in their life they have seen our state lift the shield.

However, it was not just a win: it was a statement, a demonstration of resilience, teamwork, and the determination to bring glory back to South Australian cricket. To top it off, the squad also clinched the One-Day Cup in the lead-up, securing a rare and historic double.

Behind the success is a team effort. In his first season as coach, Ryan Harris has led with strength and vision, and captain Nathan McSweeney has been nothing short of inspiring, lifting the performance of everyone around him. Together they guided this group with belief.

The transformation of Karen Ralton Oval into a true experience gave fans a front row seat to history. Thanks to the support of the South Australian Cricket Association, the City of Adelaide and the Malinauskas Labor government the venue was enhanced to accommodate 10,000 people, from a 300-seat grandstand to multi-tiered viewing decks, big screens and a festival-like atmosphere. It was more than a match, it was a celebration of community and cricket.

Importantly, the event was free and accessible. Families, schools, kids and local cricket clubs came together to witness something truly special, adding to the occasion. That spirit carried over to Rundle Mall, where thousands turned up for the Heroes Reception on 31 March. Co-hosted by Premier Peter Malinauskas and Lord Mayor Jane Lomax-Smith, it was a fitting tribute to a squad that had reignited passion for the game across the state. We must also acknowledge everybody behind the scenes: support staff, volunteers and the families of players who give so much. They, too, are part of this victory.

What South Australia's cricket team has achieved this year is more than silverware; they have reminded us what is possible when hard work, belief and unity come together. They have created memories for a generation. To the team, the coaches, the administrators and everyone involved: congratulations, you have done South Australia proud.

Debate adjourned on motion of Hon. D.G.E. Hood.