Cricket ACT is thrilled with today’s Sydney Thunder announcement, that they will play two matches at Manuka Oval in Canberra in KFC BBL|13 this coming summer.
The Thunder’s current contract with the ACT Government to play two BBL matches in Canberra each summer still had another year to run, and with the overall BBL schedule shrinking to 40 matches in total and from 14 matches per side down to 10, there were concerns Manuka might lose a match.
Instead, the chances of a magical Manuka Oval sunset greeting BBL spectators and viewers remain strong, with the Thunder electing to hold up their end of the deal.
The Thunder will face major rivals, Brisbane Heat (Tuesday, 12 December) and the Adelaide Strikers (Sunday, 14 January), in their two visits to the nation’s capital this summer.
“The club is excited to be bringing two home games to Canberra this season and we're really pleased to be able to announce two great fixtures,” Head of Sydney Thunder, Andrew Gilchrist said.
“We have history with both the Heat and the Strikers, and we know our fans in Canberra can expect two fantastic matches.
“Canberra is somewhere that we always look forward to playing and this summer is no different. We get great support and the Thunder Nation continue to show up for us, year after year.”
Cricket ACT Head of Cricket, Stuart Karppinen said the Thunder announcement is recognition for the level of support the ACT and surrounding areas provide elite cricket in the Nation’s Capital at every opportunity.
“The two Sydney Thunder games will again ensure cricket fans in Canberra and the broader region are once again spoiled for choice this coming summer.”
“Just as they will for the two Australian Women’s team’s Twenty20s in January, and the Australian Men’s one-dayer in early February, we can’t wait to see big local crowds once again getting behind the Thunder at Manuka.”
Further details about the upcoming season, including the KFC BBL|13 Draft will be announced in due course. The complete KFC BBL|13 fixture is available online.