Port Adelaide chairman David Koch has hailed the decision to stop Adelaide donning the traditional South Australian guernsey as a victory for common sense.

The Crows announced plans to wear the state jumper for the first showdown at the redeveloped Adelaide Oval, scheduled for round two.

The decision, originally sanctioned by the AFL and SANFL, divided the South Australian football community – largely along Crows and Power lines.

Late on Thursday, SANFL executive commissioner Leigh Whicker announced the rescinding the league’s support for the proposal, citing “considerable debate” for the change of heart.

“The SANFL feels this is the best course of action to ensure the return to Adelaide Oval is not overshadowed,” Whicker said.

Koch said while “it should never have got to this” he was pleased with the about-face.

“Common sense has prevailed,” he told SEN radio.

“The opening of Adelaide Oval has got to be a uniting occasion, showcasing the best of South Australian sport.”

Adelaide chief executive Steven Trigg said while the club was seeking to “honour our heritage” as a club created from SANFL, and players, coaches and staff were left disappointed.

“We view this as a lost opportunity to celebrate our origins with our loyal supporter group,” he said.

“Our disappointment will no doubt be shared by the many faithful Crows fans excited about the 2014 season… (but) this is a decision deserving of respect.”

After a $575 million redevelopment, Adelaide Oval will host South Australia’s AFL games for the first time, taking over from the suburban AAMI Stadium.

The picturesque Test cricket venue, on the banks of the river Torrens on the north fringe of the CBD, has a 53,500 capacity and is expected to sell out for the March 29 showdown.