The South Australian Cricket Association (SACA) has proudly revealed the new playing kits for the South Australia cricket teams, marking a significant return to the state’s traditional identity. Starting from the 2024/25 cricket season, the state representative teams will once again be known as ‘South Australia’, a nod to their historical roots.
For the first time since the 1995/96 season, the South Australia domestic uniforms will feature the state’s traditional colours of red, blue, and gold. These colours are prominently displayed on the new kits for the Women’s National Cricket League (WNCL) and the One Day Cup, as well as the refreshed Sheffield Shield whites.
Celebrating First Nations Culture
A standout feature of the new kits is the inclusion of First Nations artwork, designed by local artist Steven Warrior. The design elements, including the diagonal feature on the front of the WNCL and One Day Cup playing kits, represent the shape of the South Australian coastline, connecting the teams with the land they represent.
Three key First Nations designs are incorporated into the kits:
- Footprints: Symbolizing the journey of reconciliation for both Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal communities in South Australia, the footprints extend to all South Australians involved in cricket. The blue lines and circles beneath the footprints signify the significant milestones towards reconciliation.
- Dark Red Background Lines: Represent the traditional lands of the language groups in South Australia, paying homage to the region’s rich cultural heritage.
- Meeting Places: The three-circle meeting places in the middle of the design represent SACA’s head offices, with hands symbolizing the employees’ commitment to reconciliation. The three cricket balls represent men’s, women’s, and junior cricket, underscoring the inclusive spirit of the sport.
Additionally, a circle representing SACA’s meeting places will be featured on the SA Men’s Sheffield Shield shirts.
Player Reflections and Upcoming Matches
South Australian batter Thomas Kelly expressed his pride in wearing the new kit, emphasizing its connection to the state’s history and culture. “As a proud South Aussie, I’m loving the chance to wear the state colours,” Kelly said. “It’s exciting to wear a uniform that reflects the South Australian coastline and allows us to reconnect with our Club’s history. The First Nations designs that continue to feature on the kit is a reminder of our unique culture, and I know both SA Men and Women’s players will take pride in wearing these new kits.”
The SA Women will debut their new kit in the opening WNCL match on Friday, September 27, against ACT at Karen Rolton Oval. The SA Men will showcase their new One Day Cup kit in their opening match on Tuesday, September 24, against WA at Cricket Central. The new Sheffield Shield kit will make its first appearance on Monday, October 7, against NSW at Cricket Central.
These new kits not only celebrate South Australia‘s cricketing heritage but also embrace the state’s unique cultural identity, creating a strong sense of pride for players and fans alike.
