The Australian men’s domestic One-Day Cup has been renamed the Dean Jones Trophy in honor of a cricketer who transformed the limited-overs format. Cricket Australia initiated a campaign earlier this year across its digital platforms, inviting fans to help narrow down a shortlist of iconic players. The names Dean Jones, Michael Bevan, and Andrew Symonds emerged as finalists, with the Australia Cricket Hall of Fame committee ultimately choosing Jones for the honor.

Key factors for selection included an outstanding record in the domestic One-Day competition, excellence at the international level, and a lasting association with the 50-over format. Dean Jones, who passed away in September 2020 at the age of 59, was a standout candidate. In domestic one-day cricket, he amassed 2122 runs at an impressive average of 50.52 in 55 matches for Victoria, leading them to a title win in the 1994-95 season. Internationally, Jones was a pioneer of the one-day game, scoring 6068 runs at an average of 44.81, including seven centuries, and was a key member of Australia’s victorious 1987 ODI World Cup team. Across all List A cricket, his career tally stood at 10,936 runs with an average of 46.93.

The unanimous choice to award Jones was emphasized by Peter King, chair of the Hall of Fame. Dean Jones revolutionized one-day cricket and had a long-lasting effect on Australian cricket. “His enormous influence on the game is reflected in this recognition,” King said.

Phoebe Jones, Dean’s daughter, expressed her family’s gratitude for the tribute. “On behalf of the Jones family, we are deeply appreciative of this recognition for Dad, whom we miss dearly. Knowing this honor was fan-voted makes it even more meaningful. The unveiling at the MCG, a place he fondly called ‘his office,’ makes it truly special. Winning the 1987 World Cup was the highlight of his cricketing life, and he would have been immensely proud of this acknowledgment.”

In addition to the trophy, the Player of the Final will now receive the Michael Bevan Medal. Both the Dean Jones Trophy and the Michael Bevan Medal will debut at this season’s final, scheduled for March 1.