In a riveting twist of events, David Warner is gearing up for a spectacular entrance at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG) by helicopter as he prepares to lead the Sydney Thunder against the Sydney Sixers this Friday. Originally scheduled for Allianz Stadium, situated adjacent to the cricket ground, this plan was discarded. The flamboyant opener is set to touch down on the outfield, near the iconic “Thanks Dave” logo from his farewell Test.
Weather permitting, the helicopter is expected to make its grand arrival around 5 pm, following Warner’s swift departure from his brother’s wedding in the Hunter Valley to Cessnock airport. This aerial spectacle is poised to add an extra layer of excitement to an already eagerly anticipated fixture, potentially resulting in a sellout crowd.
Acknowledging Warner’s penchant for the dramatic, Sean Abbott remarked, “He is a bit Hollywood, isn’t he, that’s very Davey. I got the Lime bike in today and I’ll be doing the same tomorrow night and riding out the gate as Davey lands.”
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As quoted by ESPNcricinfo, he further added, “I’m glad they are making it happen because I think everyone in the country who is a fan of cricket wants to see David Warner in the BBL, and I’m really looking forward to coming up against him. One of the best players in the world and has been for a long time.”
He’s back!
Full #SydneySmash squad details ▶️ https://t.co/MDyEhhv9GM #ThunderNation pic.twitter.com/F9gecDcOHH
— Sydney Thunder (@ThunderBBL) January 11, 2024
Prior to the previous season, Warner secured a lucrative two-year deal with the Sydney Thunder, aligning with Cricket Australia’s concerted effort to attract international stars back to the Big Bash League.
Despite his retirement from Test cricket, Warner expressed his intention to don the Thunder colors in the upcoming season, seamlessly balancing cricket commitments with commentary duties during the India Test series. Consequently, he has been named in the 17-member squad for the upcoming Sydney Smash.
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Although the 37-year-old’s participation for Thunder this season was initially slated for only three appearances due to his impending stint in the ILT20 tournament in the UAE, a surprising turn of events has emerged. Warner is now expected to join the Australian squad for the T20I series against the West Indies, underscoring his continued commitment to the shortest format of the game.
