New recruit Jackson Bird knows how to win a derby, and could provide an edge for the Sixers in Thursday’s clash with the Thunder.
Bird has taken more wickets in derbies than anyone in BBL history, with the former Melbourne Stars paceman boasting a stunning record in cross-town match-ups.
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In six Melbourne derbies, Bird has claimed twelve Renegades scalps. The next best in BBL derby matches is Sixers tweaker Nathan Lyon’s return of six wickets against the Thunder.
The Sixers will step in to foreign territory in the BBL|05 season opener, with the Thunder’s recent move to Spotless Stadium in Homebush.
SWITCH HIT: Bird impressed by depths of Sixers talent
Aside from his Derby prowess, Bird is also the only member of our playing squad to have featured in a game at Spotless Stadium, where he picked up 2 for 15 from four overs for the Stars against the Thunder.
“The Spotless stadium wicket that we played on last year was very slow, so we basically just tried to bowl a lot of slower balls,” said Bird.
The 29-year-old’s stellar performance with the ball last season helped his side to a comfortable victory, and the fast bowling import believes the Sixers attack will make the most of the conditions.
“I can’t imagine the wicket being too different which suits our attack with guys like Sean Abbott and Doug [Bollinger].
“It’s a great place to play Cricket and we will have a great atmosphere with a sold out crowd, I’m looking forward to it.”
With a full-house expected for the first match of the season fans travelling out to Homebush should pre-purchase their tickets to avoid disappointment. Click here for tickets.
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Sixers BBL|05 Home Fixtures:
December 20, 4:20pm vs Hobart Hurricanes - BUY TICKETS
December 27, 7:10pm vs Melbourne Stars - BUY TICKETS
January 10, 7:25pm vs Brisbane Heat - BUY TICKETS
January 16, 6:10pm vs Sydney Thunder - BUY TICKETS
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