The rosters for the highly anticipated match between the Sydney Thunder and Hobart Hurricanes on Saturday have been officially confirmed, revealing some fresh additions to both teams.
The Thunder announced a 14-player squad featuring the return of batsman Nic Maddinson and fast bowler Wes Agar for their first appearances this season. In contrast, Blake Nikitaras is dropped from the squad alongside left-arm quick Reece Topley, who has completed his stint with the team and is moving on to play in the SA20 league.
The confirmed squad for the Sydney Thunder includes prominent names such as David Warner (captain), Agar, Bancroft, Billings, and Shadab Khan, among others.
On the other side, the Hobart Hurricanes have also named a 14-player squad, with all-rounder Will Prestwidge stepping in to replace batsman Hugo Burdon. The Hurricanes will look to capitalize on their lineup which includes captain Ellis, McDermott, and the experienced Wade.
In addition to the roster updates, the Thunder provided clarity regarding player status. Notably, Topley has completed his tenure, and, as reported previously, New Zealand pacer Lockie Ferguson will not compete this season following a calf injury sustained in the ILT20. To bolster their squad, the Thunder have signed English all-rounder David Willey, who is set to join the team in Adelaide next week ahead of their upcoming match against the Strikers. Willey, who recently played in the ILT20 with Dubai Capitals, will also be eligible for matches against the Heat and the Renegades later in January.
These updates keep the excitement surrounding the BBL season high as teams refine their lineups and adapt to the ongoing changes. Fans are eager to see how both teams perform in this thrilling matchup, displaying the competitive spirit emblematic of Australian cricket.