Sydney Thunder superstar Shane Watson has been all but ruled out of next Sunday’s Big Bash League (BBL) trial games against Hong Kong at Orange’s Wade Park after picking up a calf injury in his side’s final practice game against Canterbury on Friday.
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Watson, the Thunder’s skipper, was one of the biggest drawcards on offer for next Sunday’s blockbuster trial games, but was forced from the field in the third over of the Thunder’s 20-run loss to the Kings in Christchurch and wasn’t able to return in the field, or with the bat.
The 59-Test veteran has been plagued by hamstring, calf and back injuries for his entire career and while the early prognosis isn’t overly serious, Watson is said to be in some doubt for the Thunder’s BBL-opener against the Sydney Sixers on Tuesday, December 20.
Unfortunately for cricket fans in Orange, that leaves him virtually no chance of turning out at Wade Park next week without a miraculous recovery.
Although Watson’s injury is a setback to the side’s preparation, and potentially BBL campaign, Sydney Thunder director of cricket and former Test gun Mike Hussey said the group still took plenty from the halved, two-game series against the Kings.
“It was a great couple of games, the senior guys got some cricket under their belt. It’s important to practice in quality conditions against quality opposition, that has been invaluable,” Hussey said.
“We’ve got some more practice games (in Orange) coming up ... they’ll be very important too.”
Led by Chad Bowes (71) and Cam Fletcher (50) the Kings made 7-172 from their 20 overs at Hagley Oval, before the Thunder fell 20 runs short at 5-152.
Aiden Blizzard starred for the electric greens, banging out a 50-ball innings of 76. Arjun Nair was strong for the Thunder as well, taking 2-30 and making 30 as well.
“Unfortunately we didn’t get the win but we’re happy with the hit-out leading in the Big Bash,” Blizzard said.
“It was a bit challenging with the ball but we did the best with what we could.
“Absolutely, it was good to spend some time in the middle. It’s so valuable leading into a tournament like the Big Bash, so very happy on a personal front but it would’ve been nice to get the win and take some momentum home.
“The games in Orange and Albury will be very valuable for [the whole squad as well].”
One star who returned to the Thunder’s squad for the New Zealand tour, and impressed, was veteran paceman Clint Mackay, who is expected to take the new ball at Wade Park.
“He was really keen for this tour to get some good quality practice under his belt,” Hussey said.
Tickets for next Sunday’s games can be purchased from Tickettek.