Adelaide has announced that Ben Hart’s number 34 guernsey will be formally retired as a tribute to the first Crow to play 300 AFL games.

Chief executive officer Steven Trigg said Hart’s number, which he has worn since making his AFL debut in 1992, would not be worn for at least five seasons after Hart retires.

“He has made an enormous contribution to the Club and the intended retirement of his jumper, whenever that may be, is a demonstration of the Club’s appreciation and respect for that contribution,” Mr Trigg said.

Chairman Bill Sanders announced the move during the lunch at AAMI Stadium before the clash with West Coast.

“I still remember when Ben Hart first walked into the club wearing grey school shorts, a grey shirt and shiny black shoes,” Mr Sanders said. “There was nothing of him but we were being told he was the future of the Adelaide Football Club. Well, they were right.

“We are all extremely proud of that young schoolboy who has grown into one of the finest young men I have ever met.”