The Sheffield Shield is the top domestic first-class competition in Australia and one of the oldest in world cricket. It is contested by the six state sides, with matches played over four days, and is run by Cricket Australia. For most Australian Test players it is the step between state cricket and national selection.
History
The Shield was first contested in 1892-93. It is named after Lord Sheffield, who financed the trophy after the 1891-92 English tour led by W. G. Grace. The first match was played at Adelaide Oval in the week before Christmas 1892, when South Australia beat New South Wales by 57 runs. Only three colonies, New South Wales, Victoria and South Australia, took part in the early seasons; Queensland and Western Australia joined later.
In earlier years it carried commercial names, including the Pura Cup.
Format
The six teams, New South Wales, Queensland, South Australia, Tasmania, Victoria and Western Australia, play a double round-robin. The top two teams on the ladder then meet in a final, a system used since 1982-83. The 2026-27 season has 30 regular-season matches, opens on 7 October 2026 with Victoria against South Australia at Junction Oval, and ends with a final that begins on 25 March 2027. Each state hosts its home matches at its main Test grounds, and the schedule includes day-night rounds with a pink ball, among them a match at the MCG.
Recent editions
- 2024-25: South Australia won the title.
- 2025-26: South Australia beat Victoria by 56 runs in the final at Junction Oval, Melbourne, played from 26 to 30 March 2026. It was the first time the state had won the Shield in consecutive seasons.
Victoria had finished first on the ladder in 2025-26.
What to watch in 2026-27
South Australia start the 2026-27 season as holders. Full fixtures are published by Cricket Australia and the six state associations.
Frequently asked questions
Who won the Sheffield Shield in 2025-26?
South Australia, who beat Victoria by 56 runs in the final at Junction Oval, Melbourne, played from 26 to 30 March 2026.
How many teams play in the Sheffield Shield?
Six: New South Wales, Queensland, South Australia, Tasmania, Victoria and Western Australia.
When does the 2026-27 Sheffield Shield final start?
On 25 March 2027, after the regular season of 30 matches that began on 7 October 2026.