David Warner's helicopter to land on SCG outfield ahead of Sydney Smash

In a captivating turn of events, David Warner is set to make a dramatic entrance at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG) via helicopter for his Sydney Thunder clash against the Sydney Sixers on Friday. Originally slated for Allianz Stadium, adjacent to the cricket ground, this plan was nixed. The flamboyant opener is expected to touch down on the outfield around the iconic “Thanks Dave” logo from his farewell Test. 

If weather permits, the helicopter is due to arrive at approximately 5 pm, following Warner's swift exit from his brother's wedding in the Hunter Valley to Cessnock airport. This spectacle is poised to elevate an already anticipated fixture, possibly resulting in a sell-out crowd.

“He is a bit Hollywood, isn't he, that's very Davey. I got the Lime bike in today, and I'll be doing the same tomorrow night and riding out the gate as Davey lands. I'm glad they are making it happen because think everyone in the country who is a fan of cricket wants to see David Warner in the BBL, and I'm really looking forward to coming up against him. One of the best players in the world and has been for a long time,” Sean Abbott was quoted as saying by ESPNcricinfo.

Warner finds place in 17-member squad of Thunder

Ahead of the previous season, Warner inked a lucrative two-year deal with the Sydney Thunder, aligning with Cricket Australia's concerted effort to bring international stars back to the Big Bash League. Despite his Test retirement, he expressed his intent to don the Thunder colours in the upcoming season, seamlessly balancing cricket commitments with commentary duties during the India Test series. As a result, he is named in the 17-member squad for the upcoming Sydney Smash. 

The 37-year-old’s participation for Thunder this season is slated for only three appearances, given his impending stint in the ILT20 tournament in the UAE. However, a twist in the plot emerged, with the Australia opener now expected to join the Australian squad for the T20I series against the West Indies, signalling his continued commitment to the shortest format.