Adelaide Cricketers Play for the Climate at First Green Games

Cricket for Climate has partnered with Glenelg and Prospect District Cricket Clubs to pilot the Green Games.

The first match will take place at Glenelg Oval on Saturday, 8 November, with a second fixture scheduled for Prospect Oval in January 2026.

Glenelg Cricket club treasurer, Cheryl Cook, said the Academy program encouraged the club to look at new ways to support climate action locally.

“The Cricket for Climate Academy really opened my eyes to how much the weather is already changing the way we play and look after our grounds.”

“The Green Games came from that it’s about showing cricket can look after its own backyard and be part of the solution,” Cook said. 

Prospect District Cricket Club committee member, Malcolm Renney, said the initiative demonstrates that clubs are often already making sustainable choices.

“Many clubs are already doing plenty without realising it recycling, using solar, reusing kit.”

“The Green Games are about showing that all those little things add up,” Renney said. 

Cricket for Climate CEO, Joanne Bowen, added how the pilot highlights the important role community sport can play in climate leadership.

“The Green Games show that any club, player or fan can get involved in simple climate solutions.”

“Small everyday actions can make a real difference and many of them help clubs save or make money,” Bowen said. 

The concept builds on the South Australian Cricket Association and Cricket for Climate Academy program, which has supported clubs to understand and respond to the increasing impacts of climate and weather on playing conditions and facility management.

The Green Games will see Glenelg and Prospect’s Premier A Grade men’s teams compete not only for runs, but also to demonstrate positive sustainability behaviours. Each run scored will equate to one tree planted, while clubs will also introduce recycled container fundraising, sustainable menu planning, and pre-loved equipment donation drives to support junior participation.

The initiative is also supported by partners including Toyota, which will provide electric vehicle transport for players; Landcare Australia, which will plant one tree for every run scored; and Play It On, which will convert donated equipment into prepaid sport fees for young people experiencing hardship.

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