Thunder ready for First Nations Round Clash with Stars

Thunder have named an unchanged squad for the match, following their rain-affected encounter against the Sydney Sixers, which ended with no result.  

To celebrate this fixture, Thunder will once again wear a special playing shirt designed by Yuin artist Rheanna Lotter, representing unity, strength, and community.

• U-shapes represent the players, using an Aboriginal symbol for people to signify collective strength 
• Boomerangs symbolise resilience, representing the fighting spirit of the players 
• The outer patterns celebrate the fans, sponsors, and community that form the foundation of the team’s strength 

Thunder all-rounder and Kamilaroi woman Hannah Darlington shared her thoughts: 

“When the draw comes out, the First Nations Round is always the first fixture I look for. It’s such a meaningful part of our season, and having it at our home ground at Drummoyne this year makes it even more special.

“Rheanna Lotter’s work on our shirt is incredible. This is the second year we’ve had the privilege of wearing her design, and I can’t wait to put it on, represent my culture, and play with pride for this round.

“As an Aboriginal cricketer, I’ve been fortunate to progress through the ranks and reach this level, but I recognise the barriers many Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people face in accessing opportunities within the sport.  

“I’m really looking forward to playing tomorrow night and can’t wait to see all our fans there to help celebrate what is such a special occasion for our season.” 

Keightley echoed Darlington’s thoughts and is eager for the team to perform on what is a big occasion for the club.  

“First Nations Round is a special opportunity to honour Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture and recognise the broader community’s vital role in our journey. Wearing this shirt is an honour, and we’re looking forward to delivering a strong performance on such an important occasion.” 

Event Details: 

• Fixture: Sydney Thunder v Melbourne Stars 
• Date: Wednesday, November 20, 2024 
• Venue: Drummoyne Oval 
• Start Time: 6:10pm AEDT 

Sydney Thunder Squad v Melbourne Stars: 

Phoebe Litchfield (C) (18) 
Chamari Athapaththu (99) 
Georgia Adams (55) 
Sam Bates (34) 
Ella Briscoe (35) 
Hannah Darlington (25) 
Sienna Eve (19) 
Shabnim Ismail (89) 
Sammy-Jo Johnson (58) 
Anika Learoyd (4) 
Taneale Peschel (6) 
Georgia Voll (13) 
Tahlia Wilson (21) 

Tickets are available to purchase here, with free entry for all Thunder members. Fans can also catch the action live on Fox Cricket and Kayo. 

Upcoming Sydney Thunder WBBL|10 Fixtures (all times AEDT): 

• Wednesday, November 20 | v Melbourne Stars | Drummoyne Oval | 6:10pm 
• Saturday, November 30 | v Melbourne Renegades | CitiPower Centre | 10:00am