Why Canada Super 60 Is Naming Its Women’s Trophy After Mel Jones

Canada’s new cricket league has made a powerful statement. The Canada Super 60 will name its inaugural Women’s Trophy after Mel Jones. The announcement was made on September 24, 2025. The league begins this October at Vancouver’s BC Place.

This honor recognizes Jones’s multifaceted career. She is a former Australian cricketer and a respected broadcaster. Her advocacy for women’s sport, especially during crises, has been widely praised.

Mel Jones Trophy Celebrates Advocacy and Achievement

The trophy naming is a core part of the league’s mission. Canada Super 60 is the first ten-over league to launch with equal men’s and women’s competitions. Honoring a legend like Mel Jones sets a strong tone for inclusivity.

Jones’s work off the field was a key factor. She played a crucial role in supporting Afghan women cricketers in 2021. Her efforts helped evacuate players and secure their futures. According to BBC reporting, this humanitarian action was globally recognized.

She later received the MCC Spirit of Cricket Award for this work. The league sees this alignment as perfect. It combines sporting excellence with social impact.

Boosting Women’s Cricket in Associate Nations

The decision highlights a focus on growing the game globally. Associate nations like Canada benefit greatly from such visibility. The league provides a platform for local talent to play alongside international stars.

This initiative aims to inspire a new generation of players. Young girls in Canada will see a major trophy named after a female icon. It reinforces the message that women’s cricket matters.

The long-term vision is clear. League officials hope a future Canadian star will one day have the trophy named after them. This creates a legacy of aspiration and recognition.

The naming of the Mel Jones Trophy is a significant moment for cricket. It bridges elite sport with profound humanitarian effort. This action sets a high standard for new sports leagues everywhere.

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Q1: What is the Canada Super 60?

The Canada Super 60 is a new professional cricket league. It is the world’s first ten-over-a-side format to launch with simultaneous men’s and women’s tournaments. The matches will be held at BC Place in Vancouver.

Q2: Why was Mel Jones chosen for the trophy name?

Mel Jones was chosen for her outstanding career as a player and broadcaster. She was also selected for her significant advocacy work, particularly in supporting Afghan women cricketers during a humanitarian crisis.

Q3: When does the Canada Super 60 tournament start?

The inaugural Canada Super 60 season is scheduled for October 8-13, 2025. The women’s and men’s competitions will run concurrently during this period.

Q4: What is the significance of naming the trophy after a woman?

It underscores the league’s commitment to gender equality from its inception. Honoring a female legend provides visibility and inspiration for women’s cricket, especially in developing cricket nations like Canada.

Q5: Did Mel Jones play international cricket?

Yes, Mel Jones was a batter for the Australian women’s national team. She played five Test matches and 61 One Day Internationals during her career.