Cricket Australia Shortlists Bevan, Jones, and Symonds for Mens One Day Cup Trophy Naming

After weeks of passionate engagement from Australian cricket fans, the shortlist for naming the men’s One-Day Cup trophy has been narrowed down to three cricketing greats: Michael Bevan, Dean Jones, and Andrew Symonds. These players, each with a remarkable legacy in Australian One-Day cricket, rose to the top after more than 18,000 fans weighed in on social media and online polls conducted by Cricket Australia.

The announcement follows extensive fan involvement, with over 10,000 responses on Cricket Australia’s social media channels and 8,000 votes cast via an online poll on cricket.com.au. The overwhelming public interest showcases the deep connection Australians have with their cricketing heroes, particularly in the One-Day format.

The Shortlisted Legends

Michael Bevan
Known for his calm demeanor under pressure, Bevan is hailed as one of the finest finishers in One-Day cricket. Across 78 domestic One-Day matches for South Australia, New South Wales, and Tasmania, Bevan amassed 3,243 runs at an impressive average of 61.18. His highest score, 135 not out, came against Western Australia at the WACA Ground. Internationally, Bevan’s 6,962 runs in 239 One-Day Internationals (ODIs), including six centuries and 46 half-centuries, helped Australia secure two ICC World Cup titles in 1999 and 2003.

Dean Jones
A pioneer of aggressive batting in ODIs, Jones revolutionized the way One-Day cricket was played with his innovative running between the wickets and fearless stroke play. Representing Victoria, Jones scored 2,122 runs at an average of 50.52 in 55 domestic One-Day matches, and led his state to a One-Day Cup title in the 1994-95 season. On the international stage, Jones played 164 ODIs, scoring 6,068 runs, including seven centuries. He was a key figure in Australia’s 1987 ICC World Cup victory and was inducted into the Australian Cricket Hall of Fame in 2019.

Andrew Symonds
Symonds, one of the most dynamic all-rounders in Australian cricket history, made his mark with explosive batting, agile fielding, and handy off-spin and medium-pace bowling. In 85 domestic One-Day matches for Queensland, Symonds scored 1,981 runs and took 46 wickets. His international record includes 5,088 runs in 198 ODIs and 133 wickets, with a best bowling figure of 5-18 against Bangladesh. A two-time ICC World Cup winner in 2003 and 2007, Symonds was known for his game-changing performances on the world stage.

The Selection Process

The Australian Cricket Hall of Fame (ACHoF) committee, chaired by Peter King, will now assess the credentials of these three cricketing icons before making a recommendation to the Cricket Australia (CA) Board. The criteria for the honor include an elite record in both domestic and international One-Day cricket and a lasting impact on the game’s 50-over format.

King praised the engagement of the cricketing public, stating, “Australian cricket fans have done a fantastic job narrowing the shortlist down to three exceptional players. The ACHoF Committee will consider and debate the outstanding records and achievements of the three players before providing a recommendation to the CA Board.”

Fan Engagement Continues

In the lead-up to the final decision, CA’s digital platforms will continue celebrating the careers of Bevan, Jones, and Symonds, offering fans highlight packages and articles that recount their remarkable achievements. Fans are encouraged to keep the conversation going on social media as the final stages of the naming process unfold.

James Allsopp, CA’s Chief of Cricket, expressed gratitude to the fans, saying, “The level of engagement across CA’s social channels and digital platforms clearly demonstrates the passion Australians have for our cricketing heroes. We know that whoever the trophy is named after in perpetuity will be thoroughly deserving of the honor.”

The Men’s One-Day Cup trophy is set to carry a name that will reflect not only elite cricketing ability but also a significant contribution to the legacy of One-Day cricket in Australia. Fans can continue to follow and watch the domestic cricket season, including the One-Day Cup, live on Kayo Sports, cricket.com.au, and the CA Live app.