The match was particularly significant for Thunder's Sam Konstas, who was set to return from Test duties and open the batting alongside David Warner. Additionally, paceman Nathan McAndrew was also expected to make his comeback from a shoulder injury. The Hurricanes were looking to secure their fifth consecutive win in what was marked as the first carbon-neutral fixture in BBL history, with the Thunder partnering with a solar farm in India and a regenerative farming project to offset carbon emissions.
In other news, the Australian Test squad for the upcoming tour of Sri Lanka is being finalized. Teenage opener Sam Konstas is a potential retention after his impressive performance against India. However, selectors are leaning towards Travis Head as the opening partner for Usman Khawaja on subcontinent pitches, where Khawaja has excelled in the past. Mitchell Starc's participation is uncertain due to a rib injury, while Josh Hazlewood is on the mend from a calf strain. Nathan Lyon is expected to lead the spin attack, given his strong track record in Asia.
The Women's Ashes series is set to commence on January 12, featuring a mix of ODIs, T20Is, and a Test match. Australia’s squad includes notable players like Alyssa Healy and Beth Mooney, while England's team is led by Heather Knight. Australia recently secured a 2-0 ODI series victory over New Zealand, while England has been in good form, winning nine of their last eleven ODIs. The series will be broadcast across various platforms in both Australia and the UK.
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