Key criteria for the award included his record in the men’s one-day competition, being one of the best players internationally and being a player synonymous with the 50-over format.
Jones, who died aged 59 in September 2020, scored 2,122 runs at 50.52 in 55 domestic one-day matches for Victoria and led them to the 1994-95 title at international level, where he pioneered the senior game 50 years old. He scored 6,068 runs at 44.81, including seven centuries, and was part of the team that won the 1987 ODI World Cup. In all List A cricket, Jones made 10,936 runs at 46.93.
“When the Australian cricket Hall of Fame selection committee assessed players for this honour, a player’s performance, record, position, contribution and impact stood out clearly to make it a unanimous decision,” said Peter King, president of the Hall of Fame.
“Dean Jones revolutionized the one-day game and etched it in the minds of all Australians. It is well-deserved recognition for someone whose contribution was so vast.”
Jones’ daughter Phoebe said: “On behalf of the Jones family, we are very grateful for this recognition of our father, who we miss dearly. It is very special to know that his fan voted and will be announced today in what he nicknamed ‘his office’ at the MCG.
“Dad would be extremely proud to receive this recognition. He loved representing Victoria in this competition and winning the 50-over World Cup for Australia in 1987 was what he described as the best day of cricket of his life.”
In addition to the name of the trophy, the Player of the Final will now receive the Michael Bevan Medal.
The Dean Jones Trophy and Michael Bevan Medal will be awarded for the first time at this season’s finale on March 1.
