SA’s 1996 Sheffield Shield cricket team recalls their historic win as drought finally breaks 29 years later

After almost 30 years, cricket legends Peter McIntyre, Jason Gillespie and coach Jeff Hammond react to Adelaide’s 2025 Shield victory.

It’s been 29 years almost to the day since the South Australian cricket team etched themselves into the history books by taking out the Sheffield Shield.
Up until Saturday, the team of 1996 remained the benchmark that our state’s side tried to reach every year since.

Celebrations were continuing on Sunday for the 2025 team of South Aussies after breaking the drought in a four-day match at Karen Rolton Oval.

To celebrate this historic win, a Heroes Reception will be held at Rundle Mall on Monday at 12.30pm with appearances from the current players and the Premier.

But back in 1996, the battle to bring home the shield was hard fought and something batsman Peter McIntyre has wanted to see recreated for a long time.

Former cricketer Peter McIntyre celebrating on their historic win 29 years ago. Picture: Russell Millard Photography

“It was a hard slog, a tough game, and to survive that last hour was just something I’ll never do again,” Mr McIntyre said.

“We need to win more often. We’re a proud state and we’ve always had some great Australian cricketers come out of this state.”

Mr McIntyre was surprised at fans who stormed the pitch on Saturday and said the “passion was still there” in comparison to their 1996 win at the Adelaide Oval.

He also FaceTimed fellow 1996 teammate and proud father Darren Lehmann, whose son Jake Lehmann made a century in the 2025 match, after this weekend’s win.

“I remember Jake was just a little whippersnapper, snapping at our heels back then. And almost 30 years later, to see Jake do really well was great”.

Teammate Jason Gillespie said he was “incredibly proud” of the 2025 team, recounting how it felt to lift the same trophy almost three decades ago.

“I was in the commentary box this last week to see the guys lift the trophy, which was a wonderful experience,” he said.

“Back in 1996, we hosted the shootout final at Adelaide Oval against Western Australia and for the most part of the game, we were actually outplayed.

“It was just an amazing feeling to win the Sheffield shootout. I think 1982 was the last time before us that South Australia had won, so for us, it was pretty special to lift that trophy in 1996,” he said.

Up until Saturday, the team of 1996 remained the benchmark team each SA side tried to reach. Picture: South Australian Cricket Association

Coach Jeff Hammond recounted parallels of the game 29 years ago.

“I understand the pressure on (the current team) because the public perception is that South Australia has been cellar dwellers. We had that prior to me taking over (in 1993), and of course, with Ryan Harris, he’s experienced the same thing,” he said.

“I hope they go ahead and enjoy the moment and celebrate their victory very, very well”.

Peter McIntyre jumps for joy after holding on for a draw to clinch the Sheffield Shield win. Picture: Supplied

Several players shared their reactions on X over the monumental win.

“The wait is over. Give them the keys,” Travis Head wrote.

“How good all players, Sanga and Carey take a bow. Doggett and Jake well done early. Carey best keeper in the world not just Australia and Sanga to play for Australia sooner rather than later Ryan Harris next coach of Australia,” Darren Lehmann said.

And fellow 96er Greg Blewett said: “What a win and what a season! To all of the coaching staff and squad a massive congratulations. Enjoy the celebrations”.

Originally published as SA’s 1996 Sheffield Shield cricket team recalls their historic win as drought finally breaks 29 years later