Sydney’s rainy weather hasn’t disrupted the Thunder’s preparations for Thursday’s BBL05 opener, with many of the club’s players getting their first chance to have a hit out on the club’s new home ground.
After being delayed by some heavy rain at Olympic Park, the Thunder took part in a centre wicket training at Spotless Stadium, in front of a handful of members who were treated to some big hitting and strong bowling.
Spinner Chris Green played on Spotless Stadium this time last season, and says the ground is looking great in the lead up to the Sydney Smash.
“The pitches from ANZ Stadium played well, came through with pace and there was a enough in it for bowlers and batters to prepare for Thursday,” said Green.
“With a bit more pace in the wicket compared to last year, we saw a plenty of blokes clear the boundary.
“Andre hit one completely out of the stadium which was awesome, it completely stopped the session.”
WATCH: Andre Russell hits six out of Spotless Stadium
After witnessing some of the enormous hitting from his team-mates, Green knows all the bowlers will have to work extra hard on Thursday night.
“With T20 cricket you know as a bowler there’s going to be times where it is just the batsmen’s day and they’re going to clear the boundary comfortably,” said Green.
“You’re always trying to work hard and toil and wait for them to make that mistake, execute your plans and maximize the risk for them.”
With ticket sales tracking well for Thursday’s BBL05 opener, Green is looking forward to what will be an electric atmosphere at Spotless Stadium.
“It will be fantastic,” said Green.
“Last year we saw games where we got 15,000 or so, so to get close to a sellout will create a great atmosphere, it’ll be awesome.”