Creswell Garden Archway

The historic Creswell Gardens can be found right in front of Adelaide Oval. It used to be a tree covered gardens, but sadly most of the trees have gone in the recent redevelopment of the area. Just a few flower beds and young trees remain.

John Creswell (1858–1909) played for and was secretary of the South Park Football Club in 1876-79, was a founder and early secretary of the South Australian Football Association, and was a representative in intercolonial matches. He played cricket for Norwood and was secretary of the Kensington and Norwood, Cricketing Association in 1881-83.

As a sports administrator Creswell became 'a household name' in South Australia. In 1883-1909 he was secretary of the South Australian Cricketing Association and, 'by foresight, judgement and capacity', greatly raised its status. This ability was recognized in 1892 with his election as secretary to the first, controversial Australasian Cricket Council.

The Adelaide City Council named Creswell Park after him and the John Creswell Stand (now demolished) at the Adelaide Oval honours his contribution to cricket. When I was a boy my dad took me to many football and test cricket matches at the Adelaide Oval and we usually sat in the old Creswell Stand. Now called the Sir Donald Bradman Stand.

In view of the recent loss of the Ashes to the far superior English cricket team, this blip seemed appropriate for today. 
RIP Aussie Cricket!