Sydney Thunder will face a BCB XI at Spotless Stadium in Thunder’s final practice match before the start of the KFC T20 Big Bash League.

The fixture will see Sydney Thunder reunited with former coach Chandika Hathurusingha, now the Head Coach of Bangladesh as they prepare for their tour of New Zealand.

“I thought it was a good way to see how these guys measured up against the champions as it’ll give us a lot of confidence if we do well,” said Hathurusingha.

“We’ll get a lot out of it, playing in different conditions against a team in Australia.”

Despite leaving the Club after BBL03 to take up a position with the Bangladesh Cricket Board, Hathurusingha has continued to follow the fortunes of his former employers.

“I follow the club very closely,” said Hathurusingha.

“They’ve improved every year and from the culture they’ve built you could see they were going in the right direction.

Bangladesh are currently entertaining England in an ODI and Test series, with Hathurusingha enthusiastic about the Tigers’ prospects.

“Bangladesh has been playing good cricket, especially in fifty over cricket,” said Hathurusingha.

“In T20 cricket we still have a little way to go, but we have some exciting cricketers and getting to play the top side in the world gives you a good idea of where you’re at.”

Former Sydney Thunder Captain and current Direct of Cricket Michael Hussey, believes this final practice game ahead of the season will provide perfect preparation.

“Our focus ahead of BBL06 has been to play competitive games against high quality opposition,” said Sydney Thunder Director of Cricket Michael Hussey.

“I’m looking forward to seeing how we match up against some very exciting international stars.

“Getting to play at Spotless Stadium will provide valuable practice four days ahead of the season.”

Sydney Thunder General Manager Nick Cummins believes the game will not only provide vital practice ahead of the season, but will be widely supported by the local community.

”I was very excited when Chandika and the BCB approached us about the possibility of this practice match and I’m delighted it has come together.

“Chandika laid the foundations for Thunder’s BBL05 success and is a popular figure amongst the players.”

“We’ve built terrific support for the Thunder amongst the Bangladesh community in Sydney and I imagine that their loyalties will be severely tested in this match. I’m sure they will come out in force and create a great atmosphere.”

The fixture concludes a busy pre-season schedule that sees Thunder visit New Zealand, Orange and Albury to take on the Christchurch Kings, Hong Kong national team and the Melbourne Stars.

KFC Big Bash Practice Games

Dec 1 – v Canterbury XI, Hagley Oval, Christchurch, New Zealand

Dec 2 – v Canterbury Kings, Hagley Oval, Christchurch, New Zealand - BUY TICKETS

Dec 11 – v Hong Kong, Wade Park, Orange - BUY TICKETS

Dec 11 – v Hong Kong, Wade Park, Orange - BUY TICKETS

Dec 13 v Melbourne Stars, Lavington Sports Ground, Albury - BUY TICKETS

Dec 13 v Melbourne Stars, Lavington Sports Ground, Albury - BUY TICKETS

Dec 16 v Bangladesh Cricket Board XI, Spotless Stadium - BUY TICKETS

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