The Thunder are coming off a winless 2012-13 campaign, and the former Orange Cricketer of the Year said it would take a full squad effort to turn it around.

“There are 18 guys in the squad, and we’ll all be there [tonight],” he said.

“The 12th and 13th men have their job, but if the boys need anything like bats, shoes, gloves and I can help out, that’s what I’m there for.

“You never like to look backwards, you should always move forward, but having been a part of last year compared to this year it’s difficult not to.

“We’ll absolutely perform better this season, last year doesn’t hold a candle to our preparation so far this season. I haven’t trained this hard for Twenty20 in my life.”

Tremain said he was disappointed to miss out on the season opener, but knows his time will come.

“Chandy [Thunder coach, former Sri Lankan international Chandika Hathurusingha] said he is happy with everything I’ve done,” Tremain said.

“In fact he told me I’d exceeded his expectations in the trials so far, which is encouraging to hear.

“They’re expecting a traditional SCG wicket, so they opted for a more spin and batting strong line-up. In saying that, we have four games at ANZ, and others at places like the WACA, so there will hopefully be plenty of opportunity for me to play, and impress.

“I know my role in the squad, and as long as the team is playing well and winning, it doesn’t really matter if I play or not.”

Tremain said the squad would be bolstered by returning Test batsman David Warner.

“Warner is playing, as is Steve Smith for the Sixers,” Tremain said.

“But Cricket Australia haven’t released Michael Clarke, Brad Haddin or Nathan Lyon so we won’t see them.

“Our squad is good anyway but having Warner back, and a guy like Huss [Michael Hussey] skippering makes a big difference.”