Geelong to host Renegades-Stars clash

Geelong will play host to a Melbourne Big Bash derby this summer when the two sides play a warm-up fixture at Simonds Stadium on December 11 as part of the inaugural ‘Geelong Carnival of Cricket’.

The two BBL clubs, who have already established a fierce rivalry as they enter their fifth season of the competition, will feature in the ‘Summer Smash’ exhibition match, a week out from the tournament proper getting underway.

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Chris Gayle, Kevin Pietersen, Aaron Finch, Glenn Maxwell, Dwayne Bravo, David Hussey and James Pattinson are all possible inclusions cricket goes under lights at Simonds Stadium for the first time.

“It’s fantastic news that Simonds Stadium is attracting some great cricket matches this summer,” said Renegades captain Finch.

“It’ll be great to lead the Renegades onto the ground against the Stars and being a local, I’m hoping to see many Geelong cricket fans fill the stands.”

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Stars batsman Hussey said he was looking forward to taking on the Renegades in Geelong.

“We want to see Simonds Stadium filled with green and as many Geelong fans as possible getting behind the Stars,” he said.

“It will be great to take to the field under lights in front of a very passionate crowd!”

The touring West Indies side will also play at Simonds Stadium in a two-day fixture against a Victorian Invitational XI in the ‘Calypso on Corio’ clash to be held on December 19- 20.

“Cricket is our national summer pastime,” said Victorian Minister for Sport John Eren. “Now for the first time, Geelong fans will be able to see some of the world’s best international cricket stars in their own backyard.

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“We’re ensuring Simonds Stadium becomes the best sporting arena in regional Australia. It means the biggest and best events, and more often.”

Cricket Australia Chief Executive James Sutherland said the matches were a boost for Geelong, but also important preparation for all sides.

“We think this is a real win for cricket fans in Geelong,” Sutherland said. “Staging cricket under lights at the redeveloped Simonds Stadium is a really exciting prospect for our game as it gives us the chance to showcase the excitement of the BBL to audiences outside Melbourne.

“The Victorian Government and the City of Greater Geelong have been right behind the concept and shown great enthusiasm to host cricket in Geelong.

“We’re very grateful for that support and cricket is clearly the winner for it.

“The two-day warm up match involving the West Indies is another important fixture in the lead-up to the Boxing Day Test.”