The Thunder will be hoping to repeat the result of their 2015-16 season grand final win when the lime-green machine take on the Melbourne Stars at Sydney Showground on Thursday, January 2, from 3.40pm.
This year’s squad includes Bankstown Cricket Club’s all-rounder Nathan McAndrew who has been part of the Thunder team since their fifth BBL Championship winning season, including playing in that season’s semi-final against the Adelaide Strikers.
Last season, the right-arm quick played four games for the Thunder, bowling at an economy rate of 11.17.
The 26-year-old, who had his BBL contract extended for two more seasons last month, says he feels as though he’s matured “as a person and cricketer” in his time with the team.
“I’ve come a long way since coming in like a deer in the headlights because I was straight out of club cricket and in the BBL,” he said.
“I hadn’t been a part of any cricket pathway program, so to make my BBL debut in front of 30,000 people, was a shock to the system.
“I’d like to think I’m now showing I can be an all-rounder at this level.”
Sydney Thunder coach Shane Bond said the multi-skilled McAndrew ticked many boxes as a member of the squad.
“Nathan bats, bowls and fields,” he said.
“Nathan continues to develop into a fine cricketer. He’s getting reward for his hard work and commitment and we believe he has a great skill set for T20 cricket.
“He’s also bowling a good pace which is always nice to have in your group.”
Tickets: sydneythunder.com.au/tickets.
