Mitchell Johnson: AFL’s move to block Sheffield Shield final at Adelaide Oval just not cricket

It’s a huge disappointment that the Sheffield Shield final won’t be held at Adelaide Oval, of the best cricket grounds in the country, and especially because it’s been such a long time between drinks for the South Australian cricket team. The AFL might have had the contractual right to refuse to budge but their move to block cricket doesn’t seem to be in the right spirit when the ground staff said they could make it happen and the SA government also wanted it to. It’s disheartening to see politics and egos obstruct what should have been a historic moment for South Australian sport. The State takes great pride in its sport, and I experienced first-hand their passion for football, cricket and netball while residing there for a brief period during my time at the cricket academy in the early 2000s. It seems the Adelaide Crows had a big say in the decision and their needs were prioritised. And it’s not an issue that will go away given the start to the AFL season has crept earlier and earlier in recent years. It’s also odd considering the AFL and Cricket Australia have previously collaborated effectively and the AFL and SA government presumably work very closely together given the Gather Round concept which seems to have worked out well for both of them. The situation is frustrating for SACA supporters: it has been 29 long years since South Australia won a shield title. However, this season has been significant for them, as they clinched the domestic one-day competition, now known as the Dean Jones Trophy, and qualified top to host the shield final. As I reflect on the success of the SACA this season after struggling for so long, it’s clear that while player performances on the field play a crucial role, there are deeper reasons behind this achievement. One standout factor for me is the impact of their newly appointed coach, Ryan Harris, who happens to be a former teammate and great mate of mine. I’ve been meaning to write about him recently, not just because of our friendship, but because I’ve witnessed the challenges he’s faced as both a player and now a coach. I still remember the day he announced his retirement from cricket. Ryno, being the proud Australian cricketer he is, had given everything for his country and his teammates and fans. When we were together in his room after he broke the news to the group, I could see how tough this forced decision was for him, as his body simply couldn’t keep up anymore. I expressed my concern for him and how relieved I was that he was prioritising his health, even though I would have preferred to finish our Test careers together. It was an emotional day for Ryno and all of us who had played alongside him. Almost immediately after that, he began his journey into coaching, starting the process of obtaining his accreditation. His road has been well-documented in various articles, but I want to emphasise what he’s accomplished so far. Harris is deeply committed to the SACA and his players, and his love for the game of cricket is evident. He carries a high level of respect within the cricketing community, bringing skills, passion, and dedication to get the best out of his squad. He will do anything and everything possible to get the best from his squad whether that was as a bowling coach or assistant coach and now as head coach. I’m genuinely proud of his coaching achievements to date. Although his path hasn’t been without its challenges — much like his playing career — he has demonstrated resilience and a never give up attitude. Ryno showcases the same determination in coaching that he displayed on the field, and I have no doubt he will continue to lead the SACA to further success. Whatever happens in the final, Ryno should receive recognition, although he won’t seek it for himself. His primary focus is doing his job to the best of his ability and enjoying the success of the team he’s guiding. It’s impressive to see him take over from Jason Gillespie and achieve results that the team hasn’t seen in a long time and to do it in just a season is proof he is on the right path with this team. The success of former Australian players as coaches truly excites me, and it gives me confidence that the future of cricket is in capable hands. Just like Adam Voges, these former players turned coaches play a vital role in guiding and helping the next generation.