Trans-Tasman rivalry will take a new step when New Zealand’s Canterbury Kings host Australian BBL club Sydney Thunder in a one-off Twenty20 match to be played at Hagley Oval, Christchurch, in early December.
Announcing the groundbreaking fixture today, Canterbury Cricket CEO Lee Germon said it was exciting to be the first franchise in New Zealand to play host to a star-studded Big Bash team.
“This is the first time an Australian side at this level has crossed the Tasman, the result of a growing relationship between Canterbury Cricket and Sydney Thunder that will enhance the development and preparation of both organisations,” Germon said.
“Following the success of the ICC Cricket World Cup matches hosted at Hagley Oval last year, it’s another exciting treat for Christchurch cricket fans and it will be a real thrill to host this match at Hagley Oval.”
The trip to New Zealand for the match, set to start at 4.30pm on Friday 4 December, will be the highlight of Sydney Thunder’s 2015 preseason, while for the Kings, the fixture is intended to form a perfect warm-up for the finals weekend of Georgie Pie Super Smash in the second week of December.
“It’s very exciting that the Thunder are coming over to try to storm our castle — but we’ll be battle-hardened and ready for them,” warned Canterbury Kings captain Ronnie Hira.
“They’ve got some very talented players, guys who are great to watch — their captain Mike Hussey is a living legend of cricket in Australia, Shane Watson and Aiden Blizzard spring straight to mind as well.
“It’s an opportunity that all the guys are excited about already.”
Tickets will be available at www.canterburykings.co.nz from 11.00am Tuesday 15 September
