South Australia has clinched its first Sheffield Shield title in 29 years, triumphing over Queensland in a gripping final at Karen Rolton Oval. The pivotal moment came from a remarkable partnership between Jason Sangha and Alex Carey, who both scored centuries to anchor the team’s successful chase of 270 runs. Their partnership of 202 runs stands as a historic achievement in fourth-innings pursuits during the Sheffield Shield final.
Sangha sealed the victory with a boundary off Callum Vidler’s bowling at 4.50pm on the fourth day, igniting celebrations among hundreds of ecstatic fans who gathered to witness the historic win. As he raised his bat in jubilation, teammates and supporters swarmed him in an outpouring of excitement.
Despite a shaky start with South Australia losing early wickets, including that of captain Nathan McSweeney for 8 runs and subsequent falls of 1-1, 2-13, and 3-28, Sangha and Carey’s partnership provided stability and reassurance. Sangha finished undefeated on 126, while Carey contributed 105 to the campaign.
After losing another key batsman, South Australia required just 40 runs for victory when Carey was dismissed in the 62nd over, leaving the team poised for the win. Sangha’s composed efforts, alongside Ben Manenti’s quickfire runs to finish the match, delivered the victory that culminated in a thrilling celebration reminiscent of the team’s last victory in the 1995-96 season, when they defeated a formidable West Australian side featuring cricket legends like Adam Gilchrist and Justin Langer.
Brendan Doggett’s impressive performance throughout the match earned him the player of the match award, registering outstanding figures of 11 wickets for 140 runs, marking the best performance ever recorded in a Sheffield Shield final.
As the cheers echoed around the ground, South Australia’s achievement underscored a significant revival in their cricketing fortunes, uniting players and supporters alike in a celebration of this monumental victory.