Cricket Australia renames One-Day Cup to Dean Jones Trophy

The Australian Men’s domestic One-Day Cup has been recently renamed the Dean Jones Trophy. This celebrates the legacy of a cricketer who changed the 50-over format with his innovative style of play. 

Jones, also known as "Deano," tragically passed away in 2020 at the age of 59. Known for his aggressive batting, Jones scored 6,068 runs in 164 One-Day Internationals (ODIs) at an average of 44.81, including seven centuries. His contributions were crucial in Australia’s win in the 1987 ODI World Cup.

At the domestic level, he represented Victoria, scoring 2,122 runs at an average of 50.52 in 55 matches and leading the team to a title win in the 1994-95 season. Across all List A cricket, Jones’ tally was 10,936 runs at an average of 46.93. Peter King, Chair of the Australian Cricket Hall of Fame, mentioned the decision to honour Jones.

"When the Australian Cricket Hall of Fame selection committee assessed the players for this honour, one player's performance, record, standing, contribution and impact stood out clearly for it to be a unanimous decision. Dean Jones revolutionised the one-day game and stamped it on the minds of all Australians, it is deserved recognition for someone whose contribution was so vast," King said as quoted by ESPNcricinfo.

Dad would be extremely proud to receive this acknowledgment: Phoebe Jones

The renaming of the trophy followed a fan-driven campaign earlier this year, which shortlisted Jones alongside fellow legends Michael Bevan and Andrew Symonds. The Australia Cricket Hall of Fame committee ultimately chose Jones, considering his record, international success, and association with the 50-over format.

"On behalf of the Jones family, we are very grateful for this recognition of our Dad, who we miss dearly. It makes it extra special knowing its fan voted and will be unveiled today at what he nicknamed 'his office' at the MCG. Dad would be extremely proud to receive this acknowledgment. He loved representing Victoria in this competition and winning the 50-over World Cup for Australia in 1987 was what he described as the greatest cricketing day of his life," Jones' daughter, Phoebe, said.

Also Read: Reports: Virat Kohli loses cool at journalist on Melbourne arrival

The Player of the Final will now be awarded the Michael Bevan Medal, named after another luminary of the one-day format. The Dean Jones Trophy and Michael Bevan Medal will debut at this season’s final on March 1.